NFL analyst heaps playoff pressure on Caleb Williams after Bears hire Ben Johnson
NFL analyst Chris Broussard says quarterback Caleb Williams has a ton of pressure on him going into his second NFL season after the Chicago Bears hired head coach Ben Johnson.
Johnson was one of, if not the top head coaching candidate available and he took the job with the Bears. After the hiring, Broussard believes the pressure is now on Williams as many expect Chicago to compete for a playoff spot next season.
"They got talent elsewhere. They obviously have to get the offensive line better, but the receivers, the running back, the defense, it's all there." Broussard said. "It's expected, if you're an elite level quarterback that you should be able to make the playoffs in your second year if you got the talent around you. So yeah, he's got to make the playoffs."
Williams and the Bears struggled in 2024 as Chicago went 5-12 and finished last in the NFC North. Chicago had plenty of hype heading into the season, but it didn't go their way as Williams and the offense struggled.
Williams finished his rookie season going 351-for-562 for 3,541 yards, 20 touchdowns and six interceptions.
Caleb Williams liked the idea of the Bears hiring Ben Johnson
The Bears were linked to Ben Johnson last offseason and once again this year.
Johnson is an offensive-minded coach and earlier this month, Caleb Williams was asked about the coach, who said he is intrigued about him.
"I think during our game, I would sit back and watch and try and learn something while I watch," Williams said, via ESPN. "It was fascinating to watch because he always had wrinkles for counters and things like that throughout the game. I think he's obviously done really well, so it'd be cool to see how that all goes down."
The hope for many Bears fans is that Johnson can help Williams take a big step forward in his second season to hopefully lead Chicago to the playoffs. Johnson is also eager to coach in Chicago.
"The Chicago Bears are a world-class franchise with a phenomenal history and incredible fanbase," Johnson said in a statement. "Having been on the opposing sideline, I can attest to how passionate Bears fans are about this city and their team, and I am honored to be their head coach."
The Bears haven't made the playoffs since the 2020 season.