‘This Worries Me’: Fans Concerned New Bears Coach May Hurt Caleb Williams and Repeat Draft Mistakes
Chicago Bears fans are voicing concerns over the team’s decision to hire Ben Johnson as the new head coach, worried it may have unintended consequences for rookie quarterback Caleb Williams. While Johnson, formerly the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, is widely regarded for his innovative offensive schemes, some fans fear the hire could lead to another misstep for a franchise long plagued by poor draft decisions and player development issues.
Williams, the first overall pick in the NFL Draft and a Heisman Trophy winner, has shown flashes of brilliance during his rookie season. However, his development has been hindered by a struggling offensive line, which allowed a league-high 68 sacks last year. Many fans worry that Johnson’s aggressive play-calling style could leave Williams vulnerable to more hits and injuries, potentially stunting his growth as the franchise’s centerpiece.
“This worries me,” one fan wrote on social media. “Williams is incredibly talented, but if Johnson doesn’t fix the offensive line and continues to call risky plays, we’re going to see another Trubisky-like situation.”
Critics also point to past Bears draft blunders, such as the failed Mitch Trubisky experiment and missed opportunities to secure top talent in key positions. They fear that a lack of coordination between Johnson and General Manager Ryan Poles could lead to similar mismanagement of Williams’ potential.
Despite the skepticism, Johnson’s track record with the Lions offers reasons for optimism. Under his leadership, Detroit’s offense ranked among the league’s best, averaging 26.6 points per game and showcasing creative schemes that maximized the talents of quarterback Jared Goff. The Bears are banking on Johnson’s ability to replicate that success and provide Williams with the tools to thrive.
In his introductory press conference, Johnson acknowledged the challenges ahead but expressed confidence in his ability to develop Williams into an elite quarterback. “Caleb is a special talent, and our top priority is building a system that protects him and lets him shine,” Johnson stated. “We’re committed to giving him the support he needs to lead this team.”
As the Bears prepare for the offseason, fans will be watching closely to see whether Johnson and Poles can address the team’s glaring issues, particularly on the offensive line. For now, the Chicago faithful remain cautiously optimistic but wary of history repeating itself.