The Chicago Bears are entering the 2025 NFL season with momentum, high expectations, and a clear identity shift.
After a transformative offseason that included hiring Ben Johnson as head coach and reinforcing the offensive line through trades and free agency, the historic franchise is positioning itself as a serious threat in the NFC North.
But while the roster is stronger and the coaching staff has a new leader, the spotlight remains fixed on quarterback Caleb Williams, whose development will be key to the Bears’ success.
And according to NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport, Williams’ growth into a truly elite quarterback won’t be easy – or comfortable.
Appearing on Good Morning Football, Rapoport delivered a striking message about the path ahead for Chicago’s second-year signal-caller.
“Caleb Williams said all the right things, I think he has and will continue to do so,” Rapoport said. “He wants Ben Johnson to challenge him, he wants his offensive coaching staff to challenge him.
“It’s going to be really hard. I know he’s ready, I know he thinks he’s ready, but I don’t know if he truly understands what it’s going to be like.”
Rapoport acknowledged that Williams had a solid rookie campaign in 2024, posting 3,541 passing yards, 20 touchdowns, and just six interceptions.
Despite flashes of brilliance and a strong supporting cast, Williams showed typical rookie inconsistencies – something Rapoport says must change if he’s going to take the next step.
“To be great, to be one of the actual greats… it is going to be really miserable,” Rapoport continued. “Ben Johnson has been incredibly successful in Detroit. Is he the most pleasant person to be around during the season? I don’t think he is, I think it’s going to be hard.”
Rapoport didn’t sugarcoat what it takes to thrive at the highest level in the NFL, especially under a coach like Johnson who is known for intensity and high standards.
“I don’t even know right now if Caleb Williams understands that like, on a Monday night in November it is going to suck. If you want to be great, it has to suck.”
Williams’ cool demeanor and charisma have helped him win over fans and teammates early on, but Rapoport cautioned that talent and confidence only go so far in the grind of an NFL season.
“Yeah it’s all smiles now, he’s going out there and he’s looking cool. A lot of positivity. [But] to get where they need to go, he has to embrace being absolutely and utterly miserable,” Rapoport concluded.
With Ben Johnson now steering the ship and GM Ryan Poles continuing to upgrade the roster, the Bears have set the stage for a potential breakout year.
But as Rapoport highlighted, just how far they go may depend on whether Williams can endure and grow from the inevitable adversity ahead.
What are your thoughts on Rapoport’s comments? … Do you think Williams has the toughness, mentality, and skill to be a truly elite quarterback???
