Introduction to the Bears’ Training Camp
The Bears would’ve been thrilled to see quarterback Caleb Williams begin training camp with a flourish under new coach Ben Johnson. In an offseason bursting with momentum, it would’ve turbocharged the optimism at Halas Hall.
The Reality of Williams’ Performance
That’s a far-fetched expectation, though, as even established quarterbacks go through a challenging acclimation period when they get a new play caller. It was neither surprising nor alarming that Williams had another choppy performance Thursday in the Bears’ second practice.
Areas for Improvement
He spent most of the day under center, one of several adjustments he’s making, and there was little about which to rave. There were some misfires, including an overthrow to running back D’Andre Swift on a deep ball, as he and the offense showed they have a long way to go.
Time for Improvement
Fortunately for Johnson and Williams, the Bears don’t play a real game until Sept. 8 against the Vikings. But it should look right long before that.
Progress in Pre-Snap Operations
At least the first-team offense cleaned up its pre-snap operation Thursday and looked more prepared than it did in the first practice, when Johnson grew tired of the errors and yanked that group from the field in favor of the second string.
Johnson’s Reaction
Johnson laughed before practice Thursday about how much media coverage that got, perhaps an indicator of how little worry he has about getting it right in the long run. He brushed it aside as simply needing to get everyone some snaps in a 90-minute practice, but later acknowledged his displeasure.
The Path to Success
When asked if it was a Williams issue, Johnson pointed to the offense at large. The Bears had a similar snag in offseason practices when Johnson demanded better focus on details.
A Collective Effort
“It’s everybody,” Johnson said. “We’re learning. We’re growing. There was some things from the springtime expected to carry over. That was probably one. We just don’t have any tolerance for it anymore. We’ve got too far to go.”
Williams’ Role and Accountability
That’s true for the Bears, who went 5-12 last season, and for Williams, who saw three fellow first-round picks post a higher passer rating than his 87.8.
Williams’ Attitude and Work Ethic
Williams came out of last season, when coach Matt Eberflus and offensive coordinator Shane Waldron were fired, asking to be taught and held accountable. Johnson hasn’t wasted any time. He said in January that Williams’ potential was a big factor in wanting this job, and now his success as a first-time head coach hinges on getting him to where he should be.
Assignments and Expectations
While that’ll take time, Williams seems eagerly receptive to Johnson’s tone. He happily answered a question about the offseason “homework” his new coach assigned him and detailed that it included changing his footwork to click with the timing of Johnson’s offense, sharpening his accuracy on short throws and spending 30-60 minutes studying the playbook every day.
Conclusion
They won’t come all at once or immediately, and that’s fine. Williams needs some margin as he tries to implement everything Johnson is teaching, but it’s not infinite. Once the Bears get through their initial installation of the offense, he has to show clear progress.
FAQs
Q: What are the main areas where Caleb Williams needs to improve?
A: Williams needs to work on his footwork, accuracy on short throws, and mastering the new playbook.
Q: How much time does Williams have to show progress?
A: Williams has until the start of the regular season, but he is expected to show clear improvement once the Bears finish installing their offense.
Q: What is the significance of the Bears’ first game against the Vikings?
A: The Bears’ first game against the Vikings on September 8 marks the beginning of the regular season, and it is expected that the team should have ironed out their issues by then.
