Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams was a thrill to watch in 2025, leaving some to have big expectations for him entering Year 3.
Williams made some spectacular plays that helped the Bears reach the NFC Divisional Round, but 2026 could be all about what he does on an individual basis. Bleacher Report writer Moe Moton ranked the top five players who have the best chance of winning their first MVP, and Williams was ranked fourth ahead of Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott.
"In his first year under head coach Ben Johnson, Caleb Williams made notable strides and the Chicago Bears won the NFC North title. The Bears can build on the previous year, which would elevate the quarterback's profile as a potential MVP candidate. Despite trading wideout DJ Moore to the Buffalo Bills, the Bears' aerial attack can outpace last year's group with the development of wide receiver Luther Burden III and tight end Colston Loveland in their second year.
Last season, Williams only completed 58.1 percent of his passes. With more efficiency, he could be the first Bears quarterback to throw for 4,000-plus yards in a season. With that accomplishment in reach on an ascending Chicago squad, Williams would be a popular candidate. He's ranked one spot higher than Dak Prescott because the Bears are closer to the top of the NFC hierarchy than the Dallas Cowboys, who finished below .500 last year."
Caleb Williams has a shot at bringing home his first MVP award in 2026
Williams showed many encouraging signs in 2025 that he can be an elite quarterback in the NFL. He threw for 3,942 yards and 27 touchdowns to seven interceptions while adding another three touchdowns on the ground. One stat, though, that stood out from the rest was his NFL record seven comebacks and game-winning drives he led last season.
The accuracy has to improve for Williams, and it has been discussed throughout the offseason, but the skill set does not leave any doubt. He can make any throw on the field, whether he is in the pocket or running for his life.
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It's not going to be easy for Williams, but he's got a strong chance of doing it with the supporting cast he has around him. The haters want to see him fail because there's something they don't like about him, but that won't stop Williams from taking another massive leap in 2026.
