The Chicago Bears statistically had the worst offense in the NFL, averaging 284.6 yards per game in 2024. A lot of fingers can be pointed at as to why this happened.
One significant issue was the instability of the coaching staff, with the firing of former offensive coordinator Shane Waldron, as well as head coach Matt Eberflus. It didn't help matters that there were struggles on the offensive line with a lack of a running game and an NFL-high 68 sacks being allowed.
Everyone seemed to point the finger in multiple directions as rookie quarterback Caleb Williams got a pass. New stats show that maybe the finger should have gone into Williams' direction more often.
PFF gives Bears' pass blocking grade high marks, which doesn't bode well for Williams
Pro Football Focus writer Dalton Wasserman examined different offensive grades in 2024 to determine who had the best supporting cast around their quarterbacks. There was one particular grade of interest involving the Bears' offense, as they had a high pass blocking grade that was tied for eighth in the NFL.
Team | PFF Pass Blocking Grade |
|---|---|
Denver Broncos | 83.5 |
Tampa Bay Buccaneers | 83.3 |
Green Bay Backers | 79.6 |
Arizona Cardinals | 75.8 |
Buffalo Bills | 73.7 |
Philadelphia Eagles | 73.6 |
Baltimore Ravens | 73.2 |
Chicago Bears/Atlanta Falcons | 72.8 |
The Bears' offensive line underwent significant changes in the offseason, as they replaced the entire interior line. They brought in left guard Joe Thuney, center Drew Dalman, and right guard Jonah Jackson to start in 2025.
Now it's fair to say that the line had more issues than just the sacks allowed. One other significant issue with the line was the lack of a consistent running game, as the Bears were 25th in the league in rushing with an average of 102 yards per game.
It's also fair to say that Williams deserves blame. His trust in the offensive line faded early in the season, and he would tend to panic in the pocket and take sacks.
Read more: Bears' training camp rumor could be surprising rookie leap into starting lineup
One thing new Bears head coach Ben Johnson has been working with Williams on is making quick, decisive decisions in the pocket. Williams needs to be able to make plays on the run and trust his athletic ability to make off-rhythm throws.
The excuses are out the window for Williams, as the offensive line is reloaded and more weapons have been added to the offense. Williams must step up in 2025 with nothing holding him back from success.