Bears offense shines with Williams leads preseason

Caleb Williams leads a strong Bears preseason showing as Ben Johnson’s new scheme appears to lift Chicago’s offense.

Caleb Williams fuels Bears offense with Johnson system

Caleb Williams opened the Bears’ preseason game against the Bills with a 93-yard opening drive that ended in a 36-yard touchdown to Olamide Zaccheaus. In the first quarter, Chicago totaled 48 rushing yards on 11 attempts and 155 passing yards, completing 9 of 14 passes for an average of 11.1 yards per attempt, while avoiding sacks or negative plays.
Amid the early signs of an improved attack, Williams’ prior praise for Bears offensive coordinator Ben Johnson resurfaced. Williams told Bleacher Report before the 2025 preseason that Johnson had “set the standard,” and that being coached hard has been beneficial for him and the team. Johnson, named Bears head coach in January after success with the Lions, has built a staff that includes Declan Doyle as offensive coordinator and Dennis Allen as defensive coordinator. The Bears are banking on Johnson’s Detroit-era scoring pace translating to Chicago.

If the early results hold, Johnson’s system could raise Chicago’s offensive ceiling this season. Williams already looks comfortable within a pro-style structure that emphasizes ball movement and playmakers in space, a hallmark of Johnson’s past success.
Caution is still wise. Preseason games are a limited sandbox, and Chicago will face tougher defenses as the regular season arrives. The real test will be sustaining rhythm, protecting the ball, and converting opportunities against deeper game plans. Still, the spark from Williams and the clear emphasis on accountability suggest a meaningful shift for a franchise eager to prove its offense can carry the team.

Highlights

Momentum in August can soften sharp edges; the real work starts when it counts