Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams is at something of an inflection point in his young NFL career. Heading into Year 3 and his second season under Ben Johnson, there's a certain level of expectation that development will be clear and he'll ascend to (or, at least, toward) the top tier of the position.
The evidence to be documented to indicate such development will be extensive, from pre-snap and process to his footwork. Offensive coordinator Press Taylor has indicated that some of the foundational, if less quantifiable, components of that evidence are already in play, though.
While we've heard about Williams' physical and more tangible growth in camp the second time around with this coaching staff, Taylor has observed more abstract qualities
emerging out of the third-year signal-caller.
“I think the biggest thing is the maturation,” Taylor said. “He’s just grown up. I mean, he’s going into his third season in the NFL, second season in this playbook with this staff. He’s seen what it takes to succeed week-to-week, day-to-day. We haven’t played a game in six, seven, eight months, but it takes a lot to get ready for practice and to be able to have a successful practice as the leader of an offense.
That, in itself, is indicative of Williams' development. As good as he was as the year progressed, we heard and saw plenty out of the 2025 preseason that illustrated the idea that growth is not a linear process. It was clunky as he adjusted to both the playbook and overall life under Ben Johnson. The second time around, though, has allowed Williams to demonstrate his mental makeup.
“He’s been able to experience that for a year," Taylor said. "He understands the standard that we expect from him and the preparation for practice and practicing, what that means and how important that is. He’s somebody that’s taken it very serious. He’s always been very competitive. So, when the situation changes within a practice and there’s something on the line, you kind of see the competitive juices start to flow from him a little bit. But I think just the professionalism of what it takes to be a great quarterback in this league, he’s understanding that and he’s working to achieve that every single day.”
These are the kinds of things that you love to hear about Caleb Williams. The physical tools have always been evident. Even in a turbulent rookie season back in 2024. That these elements of leadership are manifesting as frequently they are — and in a way that is coming from multiple perspectives in camp — bodes well for exactly the type of jump Williams is expected to make in 2026.
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This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: Press Taylor loves Bears QB Caleb Williams' growth, vocal leadership
