The wait is finally over, and the Chicago Bears have their starting quarterback back: Caleb Williams.
ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter reported that Williams is expected to make the start in Week 6 against the Atlanta Falcons. Williams missed the last three games with a hamstring injury he suffered in Week 2 against the Minnesota Vikings.
This season, he has thrown for 407 yards and two touchdowns, with one interception in two games. He has also run for 107 yards on 15 carries and two touchdowns.
It's been a while since Bears fans have seen Williams on the field, and his hamstring injury has raised questions about what to expect from him. Here's a look at how things might be different for Williams.
What to expect with Caleb Williams back as Bears' starting QB
The Bears' offense shouldn't see too many changes in how head coach Ben Johnson runs things. It could be more open than it is with Case Keenum or Tyson Bagent in the game.
Williams has a different dynamic in his game this season, as he's been more willing than ever to run the football. That might change a bit in the Falcons game.
During his press conference this week, Williams admitted that his hamstring probably won't be 100% for a long time after suffering the injury. That could mean the running we saw from him in the first two weeks will be greatly reduced.
Chicago would hate to see that since the Bears don't have Kyle Monangai in the game for the second straight week, and D'Andre Swift and Williams are the next two best runners. At the same time, the Bears want to reduce how much they run with him, too, to take pressure off his hamstring and limit the number of hits he takes.
Johnson could lean more on Luther Burden III screen passes and quick passes. Williams loved throwing to Kalif Raymond in the first two weeks, so it wouldn't be a surprise if he gets a lot of targets. Colston Loveland could get some looks, too.
As for the running game, even with Monangai out, the Bears should still help Williams and carry the rock on the ground as often as usual. Swift should get a lot of carries, but expect some Roschon Johnson carries in there as well to get the tough yards needed.
This game has to be about Williams easing back into the flow of a game and not letting him play hero ball as much as he likes to. Johnson will have to control him a bit in the pocket and let his arm talent beat the Falcons.
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What Bears fans will probably see is a limited version of Williams that will find a way to sneak in a vintage throw or two in there. The most important thing, though, is to make sure he comes out of this game as healthy as possible so he can continue the 2026 season without any setbacks.
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