The Chicago Bears franchise will not officially go as far as Caleb Williams takes them.
Yes, the offensive line is improved, and that is huge. Yes, the receivers have been added, and some of them have value in being a tight end. The coach looks like a stud, the defense should be fine, all of that does not matter if the Bears' most important player, Caleb Williams, does not take a step.
Ranking most important Bears on 2025 roster: Number 1 Caleb Williams
The situation Williams stepped into was obviously poor, but you cannot deny that he had his lapses as well. He faced a lot of pressure, but he took more sacks when facing pressure than normal quarterbacks do. He also looked awful throwing the deep ball. He did not have time or guys open enough, but when he did, he flat-out missed.
There had to be some responsibility on Williams for last year, and Ben Johnson has been tough on him this offseason to prevent that from happening under his watch. If Williams looks better next year, everything they did will magically fall into place. The receivers will break out at the same time, and Colston Loveland will be an instant hit.
However, if Williams struggles, it will all be for naught. You will be able to see glimpses of talent displayed, and maybe you can start to tell that Johnson is dialing back his playcalling to make life easier for his quarterback.
Read more: Ranking most important Bears on 2025 roster: Number 2 controls the defense
Still, at that point, the team would be a good roster and missing the most important piece. Without the capability to fix the issue. Even if the other roster pieces hit, if Williams does not, it may be the end of Ryan Poles, extension or not. No player has that big of a sway. That is why he is number one.