One Savage Comment Sums Up The Caleb Williams-Ben Johnson Partnership

People knew Caleb Williams needed help after a difficult 2024 season. The first step was finding a head coach who could build a cohesive scheme around the young quarterback. Ben Johnson was at the top of most lists. It made sense. He guided Detroit to three of the best offensive seasons in franchise history, resurrecting Jared Goff's career in the process. If anybody was qualified from a schematic standpoint to develop Williams, it was him. Still, some wondered if Johnson had the personality to handle a young quarterback, especially one with a more free-spirited personality like Williams.

Matt Eberflus and Shane Waldron seemed unwilling to coach him with a firm hand last season, which led to his consistency issues. Williams needed somebody who wasn't afraid to tell him the truth. It didn't take long to find out Johnson was that guy. No moment showcases that better than after the preseason finale against Kansas City. Williams got off to a rough start on the first two drives, with the biggest lowlight being him taking an ugly sack after holding the ball too long.

Caleb Williams would not get support from Johnson.

Adam Jahns of CHGO pointed out how offensive coordinator Declan Doyle grilled the quarterback about his mistake, knowing it was what killed a promising drive. Johnson was far more blunt about it.

Offensive coordinator Declan Doyle said Monday before practice that Kmet was Williams’ third read.

“He didn’t see it and so we end up stuck,” Doyle said. “Really, he can throw that ball over the middle to Cole, and if he doesn’t like that, he’s just going to progress through.”

Johnson was asked about the play, too.

“Sounds like good protection,” he said.

It isn't hard to read between the lines there. Johnson unequivocally stated that the play was on Caleb Williams. He was the sole reason it didn't work out. This should tell you everything you need to know about the Bears head coach. He does not care who Williams is or his status. His job is to turn this team into a winner. If the quarterback is the one standing in the way of that happening, Johnson won't hesitate to point it out. If Williams doesn't like that, then he might not be cut out for the job.