Caleb Williams’ development made Bears’ season a huge success

LAKE FOREST, Ill. — As Caleb Williams drove away from Soldier Field on Sunday night, the reality of a season that had its ups and downs settled in. The Chicago Bears wrapped up a surprisingly triumphant season with a close 20-17 overtime defeat against the Los Angeles Rams in the playoff divisional round.

On Monday morning, Williams faced a change in his routine. Instead of going to the facility to analyze game footage and plot his next comeback, he would meet with coach Ben Johnson and general manager Ryan Poles for his exit interview, pack his things, and bid farewell to his teammates.

Although the abrupt end to the Bears’ season with an interception in overtime might sting for a while, the overall journey—especially after starting with two early losses—ignited a desire in Williams to push for more this offseason.

«You see what championship-level performance looks like; you comprehend what needs to be done to reach your end-of-year goals,» Williams stated. «You learn how to bounce back after setbacks, and that’s our approach moving forward.»

The conclusion of the 2025 season marked a pivotal moment for the Bears as they seemingly uncovered a long-sought solution: the development of a franchise quarterback. The leadership appears confident that the collaboration between Johnson and Williams will create a fruitful and enduring relationship for the quarterback and the team.

Historically, the Bears’ victories often came at the expense of their offensive prowess, but Williams, in his second NFL year, emerged as a key component in many of those victories.

«His improvement has been remarkable throughout the season,» Johnson noted. «His assimilation into our system enhanced week by week. There are moments each game where his preparation translates to success on the field.»

«When we review this season’s tape, I’m optimistic we’ll derive significant lessons and elevate our performance next year,» he added.

The Bears extended the game into overtime thanks to another remarkable play by Williams—who, with just 18 seconds left in regulation, maneuvered himself back in the pocket—26.5 yards behind the line of scrimmage—and launched a 51.2-yard touchdown pass to Cole Kmet.

Caleb Williams’ 14-yard game-tying touchdown pass to Cole Kmet traveled 51.2 yards in the air, the longest completed pass by air distance in the red zone in the NGS era (since 2016).

🔹 Completion Probability: 17.8%#LARvsCHI | #DaBearspic.twitter.com/8zWqIc27KP

— Next Gen Stats (@NextGenStats) January 19, 2026

This marked Williams’ third touchdown in the post-season during the final five minutes of the fourth quarter—the highest recorded in a single postseason in NFL history.

«There were games where he single-handedly clinched our wins,» said right tackle Darnell Wright. «He’s undoubtedly the best quarterback I’ve had the privilege to play with. I’m thrilled he’ll continue to lead our team next season.»

As Williams heads into his third year under his rookie contract in 2026, he stands alongside a promising group of teammates, including tight end Colston Loveland, wide receivers Rome Odunze and Luther Burden III, and running back Kyle Monangai—all of whom contributed to a revamped offensive line, resulting in 44 fewer sacks than his rookie year (24 this season, down from 68).

The Bears aim to fortify their roster around Williams, improving weak areas like the pass rush, which could propel them deeper into the playoffs next season. Encouragingly, having a compelling quarterback is an asset in attracting potential free agents—a rarity for the Bears in past years.

«Securing a franchise quarterback is incredibly challenging,» noted safety Kevin Byard III. «Caleb is on the upward trajectory. The lessons he’s absorbed this season will propel him to reach his full potential. In my view, he’s already among the top quarterbacks in the league.»

When Harrison Mevis kicked a 42-yard field goal through the north end zone on Sunday night, many fans chose to stay in their seats. Williams received a warm farewell as he exited the field, greeted by a standing ovation and enthusiastic high-fives from a rejuvenated fanbase.

The Bears have rekindled excitement in the city, reminiscent of the Chicago Cubs’ World Series victory in 2016 and the Blackhawks’ championship success during the 2010s.

«That’s why I said I could thrive here,» Williams asserted. «To infuse life, joy, and a renewed sense of pride into being a Chicago Bears fan. I genuinely cherish the support from the city. Experiencing moments like walking out after a loss and having fans stand and cheer speaks volumes.»