One of the most scrutinized players this season is Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams. The former USC star had a rough rookie year amid the chaos in Chicago, but the arrival of Ben Johnson as head coach and play-caller has changed the outlook.
In his season debut, Williams immediately showed why the hype is real, impressing in his very first snaps. His performance even earned praise from one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time, Peyton Manning, who pointed out the difference in Williams’ demeanor and said he looks like a completely different quarterback.
Peyton Manning Praises Caleb Williams During Season Debut
The Bears have built a reputation as a graveyard for quarterbacks, something Williams’ own father acknowledged during the draft process, according to a report by Seth Wickersham.
That stigma has fueled a widespread belief that the franchise will never develop a true franchise quarterback, creating a difficult environment for anyone stepping into the role.
Williams’s rookie year was far from ideal, largely due to the chaos inside the organization.
With both the head coach and offensive coordinator fired during the season, the Bears offered little support for the most important position on the team, making it clear that changes were needed in 2025 to avoid repeating the same story.
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In the season opener against the Minnesota Vikings, however, Williams immediately showed signs of growth. During the first half, after a rushing touchdown capped off a near-perfect drive, Manning praised the young quarterback, noting his poise and the different attitude compared to what was seen in 2024.
“Outstanding. Two hands on the pocket, in there, now we’re running. Now we’re being an athlete, something I wouldn’t know anything about. But like I said, on time, quick decisions. That looks like a different Caleb Williams to me. Ben Johnson has coached him hard this offseason. That’s what Caleb needs. That’s what Caleb wants,” Manning said.
Williams opened the first drive going 6-for-6 for 60 yards and capped it off with a rushing touchdown, showing confidence, decisiveness in the pocket, and a strong rhythm throughout the series. The energy felt different, with more composure and assurance in his play, something that was missing in 2024.
Johnson found plenty of success with the Detroit Lions in recent years, building an offensive ecosystem centered on creative play design and explosive, athletic players. Now in Chicago, he’s working to replicate that approach with the Bears’ roster, with Williams positioned as the catalyst for the plan.
It’s still early for definitive conclusions, but if there’s anything to take from Manning’s comments and Williams’ early performance, it’s that his mindset seems to have shifted, and the outlook looks promising.