Things are definitely different for the Chicago Bears in 2026, with some of those changes coming from their star quarterback, Caleb Williams.
That's because the expectations have changed. Last season, this team wasn't expected to even compete for the playoffs under first-year head coach Ben Johnson. After going 11-6, winning the NFC North, and beating the Green Bay Packers in the playoffs, the Super Bowl is on top of everyone's minds.
This only means things have to change within the Bears to make sure the culture is in the right place for 2026. Williams got that message loud and clear, as he is serious about doing one thing: taking home the Lombardi Trophy to the Windy City.
Changes to Caleb Williams has been notice by Ben Johnson entering Bears' 2026 season
In his first media availability since finalizing the 53-man roster, Johnson talked about Williams and a few things he's noticed about him. The Bears head coach noted one big change in Williams that he appreciated, without trying to take a shot at his QB.
"I’ve seen a very composed person every time he steps into the building," Johnson said via The Score's Chris Emma. "This guy might’ve had a little bit of goofy to him a year ago, and I use that term with love. And now you just see a more serious player and intent every time I’m around him. And I think his teammates feel that as well. He’s getting to the practice field early, he’s making sure his part is taken care of, he’s warmed up, he’s ready to go, he’s staying after with the guys after practice. And so he’s taken a lot of pride in his approach right now. It trickles down to everybody around him. I think it’s a great thing. So, I think he continues to grow up and he’s going to be a huge leader for us this year."
Johnson made sure to continue to clear the air that the "goofy" comment was not supposed to be any sign of disrespect towards his signal-caller. In fact, every Bears fan should love to hear that.
Williams had a great season in 2025, throwing for a franchise record 3,942 yards and 27 touchdowns to seven interceptions. It was everything Bears fans have wanted to see in their franchise quarterback. That said, Williams needs to do more in 2026.
The expectation is that Williams takes another massive leap in 2026. He needs to start by improving his accuracy from 58% to at least his career-high 62% in 2024. That would be the best way to improve his numbers and build everyone's confidence.
Chicago's coaching staff wants Williams to do the little things right on the field. In reality, his new approach to how he attacks the job without his "goofy" needs to be roped into the little things. This shows a new level of maturity with Williams, a welcome sign from a quarterback focused on getting better and winning.
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This is everything Bears fans have wanted to hear about their quarterbacks for decades. If there was any sign that this franchise is about to take the next step in its evolution, it's Williams eliminating the "goofiness" and being ready to take the league by storm.
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