At this point in the season, the Chicago Bears should be feeling pretty positive about how things have gone. This team isn't healthy, just yet, and only four games into a brand-new offensive and defensive scheme, the Bears look more competitive than some give them credit for.
One of the biggest storylines will continue to be the ascension of quarterback Caleb Williams and how Ben Johnson has been able to take him to a new level.
Maybe your biggest takeaway, so far, is the fact that Williams is being sacked far less than he was a year ago (5.11 percent of his drop-backs this year versus 10.79 in 2024). Maybe it's the fact that his touchdown percentage is up to a staggering 6.2 percent this season compared to just 3.6 last year.
Both are impressive numbers and show exactly what fans have wanted to see in Year 2. But, the most dramatic aspect of Williams' improvement happens to be on third downs.
Caleb Williams' improvement on third downs is astronomical so far
In 2024, the Bears ranked 31st in third-down percentage. Through four games in 2025, Williams and the offense are fourth in the NFL at 45.45 percent. Not only that, but the Bears rank second in terms of most yards to go on third down at over 8.5 yards to go.
Alright, so clearly there is something that still needs some work, and yes, it's directly tied to the run game. The fact that Johnson's offense is averaging needing over 8.5 yards on third down is abysmal. It is completely unacceptable.
The Bears are currently averaging 25.3 points per game, which is good for 12th in the NFL. Think about that. The league's 12th-best offense needs 8.5 yards out of 10 to go, on average, for every third down snap they've taken.
However, don't think Johnson isn't aware of the issue. He's one of the most creative offensive minds in the league for a reason. Once Johnson is able to implement changes that improve Chicago's run game, you're going to see this offense taken to new heights which Bears fans didn't even think was possible.
Williams, specifically, has taken monumental steps in just a few games under Johnson. The third-down percentage proves it. His ability to convert, when his back is up against a wall, is flat-out impressive.
Read more: Former Bears star offers an honest take on how Ben Johnson has done so far
If you still had doubts about Williams and continue buying into the naysayers, I'd suggest you change the tone of your thinking. He's playing far better than anyone is giving him credit for.