A Rocky Start for Caleb Williams in Chicago
The 2024 season was a disappointing one for the Chicago Bears, with a record of 5-12 and a fourth-place finish in the NFC North, effectively missing the playoffs. Caleb Williams, the franchise’s future at quarterback, had a challenging rookie year. Williams was sacked a league-high 68 times, a testament to the struggles of the offensive line and the broader issues plaguing the team. Despite the rough start, there are reasons to believe that things can only get better for Williams and the Bears. The team’s aggressive moves in the offseason and the new leadership under head coach Ben Johnson are setting the stage for a turnaround.
New Leadership and a Fresh Start
The Bears’ decision to fire head coach Matt Eberflus midseason and hire Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson is a significant step in the right direction. Johnson, who was one of the top coaching candidates this cycle, is known for his innovative play-calling and quarterback development. His appointment is a clear indication that the Bears are committed to building a winning culture and supporting Williams. Johnson’s experience and reputation make him the ideal coach to mentor Williams and lead the franchise’s resurgence. The new coaching staff will bring a fresh perspective, and the players will have the opportunity to adapt to a system that emphasizes protection and play-action passing, both of which are crucial for Williams’ development.
Key Free Agents: Building Around Williams
The Bears have several key free agents to consider this offseason, including wide receiver Keenan Allen, tight end Mercedes Lewis, and guard Teven Jenkins. Allen, who had a respectable but underwhelming season with the Bears in 2024, is a free agent and has expressed interest in staying with the team. If he chooses to return, he would provide a reliable third option for Williams alongside DJ Moore and Rome Odunze. However, Allen has also mentioned that he would consider playing for the Chargers or the Rams if the Bears are not an option.
Lewis, who turns 40 in May, has expressed his desire to continue playing and could be a valuable addition to the tight ends room. His experience and leadership would be beneficial, and he could potentially come at a reasonable cost. However, it remains to be seen whether he will want to continue with the new regime.
Jenkins, the team’s second-round pick in 2021, has struggled with injuries throughout his career. Despite playing in a career-high 65% of snaps this past season, his future with the Bears is uncertain. Jenkins has stated that it’s a "toss-up" whether he will return, and the team may need to consider other options to bolster their offensive line.
Addressing Key Needs: Offensive and Defensive Line
The Bears’ most pressing needs this offseason are on the offensive and defensive lines. The team’s struggles can’t be entirely blamed on the offensive line, but it’s clear that Williams needs better protection. The Bears allowed 68 sacks during Williams’ rookie campaign, and addressing this issue is paramount. Landing a top-tier offensive lineman in free agency and the draft would significantly improve Williams’ playing conditions and the overall performance of the offense.
On the defensive side, the Bears need to add a pass rusher to complement Montez Sweat and DeMarcus Walker. The team’s defense has been inconsistent, and adding a dynamic pass rusher would provide an immediate spark to the defensive front. This move would also allow the Bears to focus on other areas of need in the early rounds of the draft.
Financial Flexibility and Potential Cuts
The Bears enter the offseason with nearly $65 million in cap space, which is among the highest in the league. This financial flexibility gives them the ability to make significant moves in free agency and the draft. However, the team may also consider cutting certain players to free up additional cap space.
Tight end Gerald Everett and safety Kevin Byard are potential candidates for release. Everett had a disappointing season, and the team can save more than $5 million by parting ways with him. With Cole Kmet leading the tight ends, there is no pressing need to overpay for Everett’s backup. Byard, despite having a strong season with 130 tackles and an interception, is 31 years old, and the Bears could save about $7 million in cap space by releasing him. This would allow the team to invest in younger and more cost-effective players.
Draft Strategy and Key Picks
The Bears have three picks in the top 41 of the 2024 NFL Draft, including the 10th overall pick. These picks provide the team with the opportunity to address their most pressing needs and build a solid foundation for the future. One of the best fits for the Bears in this draft is LSU offensive tackle Will Campbell. Campbell is considered one of the top offensive linemen in the draft and would provide immediate help to the Bears’ offensive line. His physicality, technique, and experience make him a safe and valuable choice for the team.
In addition to Campbell, the Bears should focus on adding depth and talent to both the offensive and defensive lines. With the 10th pick and their other high draft selections, the Bears have the resources to address these needs and provide Williams with the protection he needs. The team’s success in the 2024 draft could be a turning point in their efforts to build a competitive roster and support their young quarterback. If Williams can avoid another season of being the most sacked quarterback in the league, the Bears stand a much better chance of making a significant leap in the coming years.
