Caleb Williams Predicted to Shatter Bears Passing Record in 1st Year With Ben Johnson
Caleb Williams Predicted to Shatter Bears Passing Record in 1st Year With Ben Johnson originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The Chicago Bears have an illustrious history stretching back more than a century, though it is devoid of even a single great quarterback during the Super Bowl era.
Advertisement
Jim McMahon is the only Bears signal-caller with a championship ring, though he won it with the overwhelming support of one of the best defenses in NFL history. In terms of career resumé, Jay Cutler is the most prolific thrower of the football ever to wear a Chicago uniform, and it's unclear how much he ever cared about the sport or being great at it while he was playing.
The No. 1 pick in the 2024 draft was supposed to change all that.
The Bears landed former Heisman Trophy winner Caleb Williams and got off to a 4-2 start. Then a 10-game losing streak struck, and Williams watched as his offensive coordinator and head coach get fired, though his view was often obscured by the turf stuck in his helmet following any number of the league-leading 68 sacks he endured.
Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams. Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
Chicago's front office called on former Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson this offseason, luring him to the Windy City with the promise Williams' talent and $13 million annually over a five-year contract to save the purported savior of the Bears' cursed QB room.
Advertisement
Johnson subsequently added three new interior offensive linemen, all of whom appear likely to start. He then spent the team's first two draft picks on a stud tight end and a stud slot receiver to round out Williams' weapons alongside Nos. 1 and 2 wideouts DJ Moore and Rome Odunze. Now, it's time to put it all together during training camp.
Jeffri Chadiha of NFL.com expects Johnson, Williams and the rest of the Bears offense will do just that, predicting on Thursday, June 19, that the quarterback will break the all-time franchise record for passing yards in just his second season.
"One thing that shouldn't be doubted is whether he'll become the first Chicago signal-caller to throw for 4,000 yards in a season. Williams won't just reach that barrier; he'll blow it away, especially when considering all the advantages he has working for him now," Chadiha wrote. "Williams threw for 3,541 yards and 20 touchdowns last season when he was running for his life and trying too hard to extend plays. Better coaching and an improved supporting cast will make life much easier for him, and the numbers will bear that out."
Chadiha projected Williams to throw for 4,500 yards and 35 touchdowns in 2025.
Related: NFL Reveals Bears' Key Dates for 2025 Training Camp
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 20, 2025, where it first appeared.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
26 minutes ago
- Yahoo
Texas Longhorns Gets Major Update on 5-Star Freshman and Two-Sport Star Jonah Williams
Texas Longhorns Gets Major Update on 5-Star Freshman and Two-Sport Star Jonah Williams originally appeared on Athlon Sports. Head coach Steve Sarkisian and the Texas Longhorns put together a strong 2025 recruiting class. Advertisement According to 247Sports, they have the No. 1-ranked recruiting class in the nation, ahead of SEC rivals Georgia and Alabama. The player leading the way in their class is safety Jonah Williams. Williams is the No. 6-ranked player in the nation, and as a result, is expected to have an immediate impact on the Longhorns next season. On Wednesday, Longhorns fans got an update on how he has been looking with the team. Sources told reporter Anwar Richardson that he has been described as "Fantastic, special, and super smart." Texas Longhorns head football coach Steve Sarkisian takes a photo with pitcher Jonah Williams (55) ahead of the Lone Star Showdown against Texas A&M on April 25, E. Martinez/American-Statesman/USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images Jonah Williams is one of four five-star recruits signed by the Texas Longhorns in the 2025 recruiting class. He leads the way as the highest-ranked player but is joined by No. 13-ranked defensive lineman Justus Terry, No. 21-ranked wide receiver Kaliq Lockett and No. 23-ranked cornerback Kade Phillips. Advertisement Williams is an interesting recruit because he joined not just the football team but the baseball team at Texas as well. He enrolled early in 2025 so that he could join the baseball team as a left fielder for the team. This does not seem to bother head coach Steve Sarkisian as he spoke proudly about Williams' baseball career in April. "The guy is out there looking like Juan Soto right now," Sarkisian said. "He's playing on some big-time series right now, he's got a great opportunity, and he's maximizing." The Texas Longhorns will start their season on August 30 against the defending national champion Ohio State Buckeyes. Related: Texas Commit Jonah Williams Shines For Ball High School In Season Debut This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 18, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
27 minutes ago
- Yahoo
Texas Football Gets Huge Update on Former 5-Star Recruit Wednesday
Texas Football Gets Huge Update on Former 5-Star Recruit Wednesday originally appeared on Athlon Sports. In a thrilling development for Texas Longhorns fans, former five-star recruit and top-ranked running back CJ Baxter has returned to the practice field, marking a significant milestone in his recovery. Advertisement The update, shared by Inside Texas via X on Wednesday afternoon, reveals that Baxter, who suffered a devastating knee injury last August—tearing both his LCL and ACL—has been cleared to play football once again. This news has sparked excitement across the Longhorns community, with the talented sophomore poised to reclaim his spot on the field. Baxter, a standout from the Class of 2023, showcased his potential as a true freshman, amassing 659 rushing yards and five touchdowns, alongside 24 receptions for 156 yards. Texas Longhorns head football coach Steve Sarkisian.© Aaron E. Martinez/American-Statesman / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images The 6-foot-1, 215-pound powerhouse, known for his explosive running style, was spotted participating in drills, a sight that has fans and teammates buzzing with optimism. Advertisement The return of Baxter, who holds the distinction of being the first true freshman running back to start a season opener since Ricky Williams in 1995, bolsters an already dynamic Texas backfield. With his recovery ahead of schedule, Steve Sarkisian and the rest of the Longhorns' coaching staff can now integrate his skills alongside teammates like Quintrevion Wisner, setting the stage for a formidable rushing attack in the upcoming season. Fans took to X to express their joy, with comments ranging from prayers for his continued health to bold declarations of him being the 'best RB in the country.' As Baxter laces up his cleats, Texas football is undoubtedly stronger, with hopes high for a stellar 2025 campaign. Related: Texas Longhorns Gets Major Update on 5-Star Freshman and Two-Sport Star Jonah Williams This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 18, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
27 minutes ago
- Yahoo
Kevin Durant Video is Going Viral Amid Trade Rumors
Kevin Durant Video is Going Viral Amid Trade Rumors originally appeared on Athlon Sports. A video of Kevin Durant showcasing his basketball prowess has gone viral, reigniting discussions about his future in the NBA. Advertisement The clip, shared by @cbrickley603 on Instagram, captures Durant in action on the court, demonstrating his signature skills and dominance. This comes at a time when trade rumors surrounding the Phoenix Suns forward are intensifying, with various teams speculated to be interested in acquiring him. The video, which features Durant maneuvering around defenders and making precise shots, has sparked a flurry of reactions online. Fans and analysts alike are marveling at his enduring talent, with many arguing that he remains one of the greatest players in basketball history. The timing of the video's release is particularly notable, as it coincides with reports that multiple teams like the Miami Heat and Minnesota Timberwolves have been pursuing a trade for Durant. Phoenix Suns star forward Kevin DurantJerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports Durant, 36, is coming off a season in which he averaged 26.6 points per game on a remarkable 52.7% shooting from the field, has shown he still has what it takes to lead a team to a championship. Advertisement Durant's social media activity and public statements have also fueled speculation about his next move. His recent interactions online, combined with his on-court performance, suggest that he is keenly aware of the narrative surrounding his career. As the NBA offseason progresses, all eyes will be on Durant and the Suns, with the possibility of a trade still very much in play. This viral video serves as a reminder of his exceptional abilities, keeping the conversation about his legacy and future destination alive. Related: Texas Football Gets Huge Update on Former 5-Star Recruit Wednesday This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 19, 2025, where it first appeared.
