Caleb Williams Stirs Drama Over Bears’ Coaching Preference
Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams recently shared his thoughts on the team’s search for a new head coach. The 2024 NFL Draft top pick opened up during an appearance on the “St. Brown Podcast” with Amon-Ra and Equanimeous St. Brown, offering insight into his coaching preferences, recounting a hilarious prank, and reflecting on his challenging rookie season.
Pranked by “Ben Johnson”: A Rookie Tale
While unwinding from a tough rookie year, Williams received a text purportedly from Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, congratulating him on Johnson’s new role as the Bears’ head coach. Excited yet cautious, Williams sought confirmation from Amon-Ra St. Brown. Before hearing back, he decided to FaceTime the sender—only to discover it was a group of kids playing a prank.
Williams kept his composure during the call, suspecting he was being recorded, but admitted he was furious afterward. “I wanted to smash some stuff,” he said with a laugh. The incident prompted him to immediately change his phone number.
The Bears’ Extensive Coaching Search
The Bears are casting a wide net in their quest for a new head coach, interviewing over a dozen candidates. Notable names include:
– Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn.
– NFL veterans like Mike McCarthy, Pete Carroll, and Ron Rivera.
– Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman and Iowa State’s Matt Campbell.
The team’s aggressive approach reflects the urgency to find a leader who can steer the Bears out of their current struggles, highlighted by a disappointing 5-12 season and midseason firings of offensive coordinator Shane Waldron and head coach Matt Eberflus.
Williams’ Ideal Coach: Strong, Offensive-Minded, and Committed
When asked about his ideal head coach, Williams emphasized leadership and long-term stability.
“Strong-minded. A leader of men,” he said, praising the leadership qualities of Lions head coach Dan Campbell. Williams also expressed a preference for an offensive-minded coach, citing the opportunity to grow alongside a mentor with experience developing quarterbacks.
“Selfishly, I want an offensive-minded guy so I can build with him and be with that coach for the next 15, 17, 19 years,” he said. Williams hopes for a coach who can share insights from working with other quarterbacks and help him refine his game.
Learning from a Tough Rookie Year
Williams’ first season in the NFL was filled with challenges, from navigating a struggling offense to witnessing coaching upheaval. Reflecting on these experiences, he pointed to time management and decision-making as critical areas where a head coach can make a difference.
“In our game when we played the first time in Detroit, a big factor was being able to help control the clock,” he said, referencing the Bears’ Thanksgiving loss in Detroit where poor clock management cost them the game.
Williams envisions a head coach who excels in strategic oversight and personnel decisions, with one ultimate goal: “Finding the right guys to win championships. That’s the only goal I have for my NFL career—to win championships.”
What’s Next for the Bears?
As Williams waits for the announcement of the Bears’ new head coach, the young quarterback remains focused on his future. The decision will not only shape the trajectory of his career but also define the next chapter for a franchise eager to return to prominence.
With Williams’ input and a clear emphasis on leadership, offensive innovation, and strategic acumen, the Bears have a unique opportunity to build a foundation for sustained success. Whoever takes the reins will inherit a promising yet demanding challenge—and they’d better make sure to get Williams’ new phone number.
