The Chicago Bears did not handle the first stages of Caleb Williams' development well. Their first mistake was assuming head coach Matt Eberflus would have a good plan. They already had two years of clear evidence that he had no idea how to create a proper structure for his quarterbacks. The other problem was not investing nearly enough in their offensive line. As a result, they got Williams sacked 68 times and looked completely lost for stretches as a rookie. Going into 2025, things had to change.
Ben Johnson was hired to replace Eberflus, bringing is elite offensive acumen with him from Detroit. Next came Joe Thuney, Drew Dalman, and Jonah Jackson to help overhaul the offensive line. The results have been significant. Williams has been sacked only 14 times in eight games, and his 93.5 passer rating represents a considerable improvement from last year. In fact, Williams' first 25 career games should look familiar from a statistical standpoint.
- 62.1 completion percentage
- 5457 yards
- 32 touchdowns
- 10 interceptions
- 89.6 passer rating
C.J. Stroud
- 63.5 completion percentage
- 6479 yards
- 35 touchdowns
- 11 interceptions
- 96.2 passer rating
Caleb Williams gaining on C.J. Stroud feels rather poetic.
The Houston Texans quarterback famously shared a moment with Williams after beating him last year. The Bears QB had just endured seven sacks, taking a beating all night. Stroud tried encouraging him, saying it would get better and to try not to take as many sacks moving forward. It felt like what fans called a "little brother" moment. Stroud acted like some sort of mentor despite having only one year more of experience than Caleb Williams. It seems rather fitting that their numbers line up pretty well after all of that.
Stroud has established himself as one of the best quarterbacks in the AFC, making the playoffs each of the past two years. However, it feels like the two have pulled even this season. Williams has more touchdowns (12 to 11) and fewer interceptions (5 to 4). The only advantage Stroud has at this point is a better completion percentage. If Williams manages to close that gap, too, there might be a new sheriff in town.
