Bears HC Ben Johnson Reveals Surprising Caleb Williams Decision
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The Chicago Bears have a new head coach in Ben Johnson, the former Detroit Lions offensive coordinator. Johnson installed a new staff and is ready to help guide the new era of Bears football.
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One thing that has been at the top of the list for Johnson is getting the offense in shape, especially for upcoming second-year quarterback Caleb Williams. With early reports from training camp stating that Williams and the offense weren't clicking, it appears that might not be the case any longer.
Johnson joined "Hoge & Jahns" to reveal that Williams will be shut down for the preseason opener, which is a bit surprising.
When Johnson was asked about the plans for the preseason opener against the Miami Dolphins, he stated that around "nine players" on the offense and defense will play, meaning starters, but the rest of the starters will not appear.
When asked if "No. 18 was part of the players that won't play," Johnson stated that "No. 18 is part of that group."
Caleb Williams #18 of the Chicago Bears takes part in a drill during Chicago Bears Training Camp at Halas Hall on July 24, 2025 in Lake Forest, Illinois.
Caleb Williams #18 of the Chicago Bears takes part in a drill during Chicago Bears Training Camp at Halas Hall on July 24, 2025 in Lake Forest, Illinois.
Photo byMore news: Colts Get Massive Injury Update on Anthony Richardson
It is not at all shocking that Williams will not see any action in the preseason opener. For one, the Dolphins have a very tough pass rush that could lead to a costly mistake if Williams is on the field.
Secondly, it is not that common for starters to take the field in the first game of preseason football. While a lot of teams did use their starters on Thursday, that might not always be the smartest decision.
Take the Indianapolis Colts, for instance. Anthony Richardson suffered a dislocated finger on a big hit and was taken out. Injuries are not very rampant in preseason action, but they are also not uncommon.
Williams might need some reps with the team, but that will likely come in the third preseason game, which is generally known as the regular season "dress rehearsal."
Protecting Williams is certainly paramount to the Bears' success, and while reports have indicated a sloppy style of play for the current offense, they have time to clean things up a bit.
For now, Williams will have to sit out and watch his teammates take the field when the Bears host the Dolphins on Sunday for the first preseason game.
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