As the Chicago Bears prepare for the 2025 NFL season, they’ll do so under new leadership. Following a tumultuous 2024 campaign, the team is seeking a fresh start after firing head coach Matt Eberflus midseason. Despite early promise with rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, the Bears suffered an 11-game losing streak before salvaging the final game of the season.
With a new head coach on the horizon, all eyes are on Williams, the former No. 1 overall pick, as he looks to take the next step in his career. This week, Williams shared his thoughts on what he hopes to see in the team’s next head coach—and his expectations are clear.
Williams Wants to Be Challenged
Speaking to reporters, Williams emphasized his desire for a coach who will push him to be his best.
“I would say just challenge me,” Williams said. “Whether it’s pulling me aside and saying whatever—having talks consistently. Maybe having a list of things we want to accomplish, starting with myself and how that helps the team. From there, help find ways to set goals. However it might work out, just challenge. Find ways to help better myself and better the team. I’m really excited about that.”
Williams welcomed the idea of open and honest communication with his future coach, underscoring his willingness to grow.
“I don’t have an issue being challenged,” he added. “I don’t have an issue with speaking truth between the coach and I or whoever it may be. Whichever way it happens or shapes up is the way it goes.”
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Reflecting on a Tough Rookie Year
Williams’ first year in the NFL was a mix of learning and resilience. The quarterback showed flashes of brilliance, completing 62.5% of his passes for 3,541 yards, 20 touchdowns, and just six interceptions. He also showcased his dual-threat ability, rushing for 489 yards.
However, the 2024 season wasn’t without its challenges. Williams took a league-high 68 sacks and fumbled 10 times, losing five. Despite the adversity, the young quarterback viewed the season as a learning experience.
“I knew it was a big task at hand,” Williams said. “I knew there were some things I couldn’t do from college, some things I could do, and a bunch of things I needed to learn on and off the field. There were more lessons this year than I’ve had before. One of the biggest was learning what it takes throughout the week to prepare for a game—for me to play well and for the team to play well.”
Williams acknowledged that improving his awareness in the pocket and decision-making under pressure would be crucial moving forward.
“Finding ways to be better with those things throughout the year and the years to come is something I’m focused on,” he added.
Building for the Future
As the Bears search for a new head coach, they’ll need someone who can not only guide a young and talented roster but also help Williams unlock his full potential. Williams’ openness to being challenged and willingness to grow bodes well for his development and the team’s prospects.
With a new coach, a renewed sense of purpose, and a promising young quarterback ready to lead, the Bears are looking to turn the page on a difficult season and build toward a brighter future.
Whether they can meet Williams’ expectations remains to be seen, but the quarterback’s commitment to improvement is a strong foundation for what lies ahead.
