Ben Johnson is the head coach of the Chicago Bears. That means it's his responsibility to elevate the entire team. He knows that. Everybody knows that. However, they also know that his relationship with Caleb Williams will determine how far the Bears go. Recent history shows that the quarterback-coach connection often drives the most successful organizations: Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid in Kansas City, Sean McVay and Matthew Stafford in Los Angeles, Nick Sirianni and Jalen Hurts, and Zac Taylor and Joe Burrow are some important examples.
The Bears haven't had anything close to that since maybe Mike Ditka and Jim McMahon. Johnson and Williams have a chance to be the most prolific by far. It depends on whether the quarterback accepts the coach's leadership and guidance. Williams finally spoke about that for the first time. During a Q&A at Fanatics Fest, he was asked about his impression of Johnson thus far. Williams made it clear that the man lives up to his reputation. He is incredibly intelligent, a great person, and a hardass.
Caleb Williams wanted tough coaching. He got his wish.
That was evident from all the comments from Halas Hall during the team's implosion last season. Several players hinted that the coaching wasn't strong enough. Guys weren't being held accountable. Corners were being cut in practice, which inevitably led to mistakes in games. From the moment he arrived, Johnson made it clear he wasn't having any of that. Even the smallest infractions caused him to stop practice and light up players for their infractions. It isn't about being a bully or some power trip. He aims to win, and you can't do that by beating yourself. Caleb Williams isn't immune to this. Being the quarterback doesn't afford him preferential treatment. Johnson is on him every day. If he wants to be the best, he needs to earn it.
