❤️ “I WILL NEVER REGRET GIVING HIM THIS PRIVILEGE” Coach Ben Johnson unexpectedly revealed three special privileges he is willing to grant Caleb Williams at the Chicago Bears. According to the coach, this is a well-deserved reward for the young star’s contributions, influence, and growing role in the team’s rebuilding journey. 🔥 This move shows that Williams is not only the future, but is also becoming the center of the Bears right now.

In a surprising post-game press conference following the Chicago Bears’ narrow 19-16 loss to the Detroit Lions on January 4, 2026, head coach Ben Johnson opened up about his unwavering trust in quarterback Caleb Williams.

Johnson, in his inaugural season as Bears head coach, emphasized that Williams has earned unprecedented privileges within the team structure. This revelation comes as the Bears gear up for their first playoff appearance since 2020, having clinched the NFC North with an impressive 11-6 record.

Johnson’s comments highlight the rapid evolution of the Bears under his leadership. Hired on January 21, 2025, after a successful stint as the Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator, Johnson has transformed a struggling franchise into a playoff contender.

The Bears improved from a dismal 5-12 in 2024 to dominating the division, thanks in large part to Williams’ breakout performance. The young quarterback shattered the franchise’s single-season passing record with 3,942 yards, surpassing Erik Kramer’s 1995 mark.

The first special privilege Johnson revealed is granting Williams significant input in play-calling during critical game moments. “Caleb’s football IQ is off the charts,” Johnson stated. This autonomy allows Williams to audible at the line of scrimmage more freely than typical second-year quarterbacks.

It’s a nod to his quick decision-making, which was evident in the fourth-quarter comeback attempt against the Lions, where he threw for 123 yards and two touchdowns.

This privilege stems from Williams’ growth throughout the 2025 season. Starting as a rookie with high expectations after being the No. 1 overall pick in 2024, Williams faced early challenges but adapted under Johnson’s innovative offensive scheme.

The Bears’ offense, once stagnant, became one of the league’s most dynamic, averaging over 25 points per game in the latter half of the season. Johnson’s trust reflects Williams’ ability to elevate teammates like receivers Jahdae Walker and tight end Colston Loveland.

The second privilege involves Williams’ role in team leadership and locker room dynamics. Johnson announced that Williams will serve as a permanent team captain, with veto power on certain motivational strategies. “He’s not just our QB; he’s the heartbeat of this team,” Johnson said.

This move empowers Williams to lead meetings and influence practice routines, fostering a culture of accountability that has been key to the Bears’ turnaround.

Williams’ leadership has been instrumental in the rebuild. The Bears added key pieces like rookies Luther Burden and Kyle Monangai, but it’s Williams’ charisma that unified the squad.

His historic touchdown pass to Walker against the Lions not only broke the passing record but also ignited Soldier Field, showcasing his poise under pressure. Johnson’s decision underscores Williams’ maturity, especially after early-season frustrations where he waved off coaching directives during practice.

The third and perhaps most groundbreaking privilege is involving Williams in personnel decisions, particularly regarding offensive acquisitions. Johnson disclosed that Williams will have a seat at the table for free agency discussions and draft evaluations. “His vision for this offense aligns perfectly with mine,” Johnson explained.

This rare involvement for a young player signals the Bears’ commitment to building around Williams as the franchise cornerstone.

This privilege aligns with the Bears’ strategic rebuild under general manager Ryan Poles. After firing Matt Eberflus in November 2024 and elevating Thomas Brown as interim, the team targeted Johnson for his offensive expertise.

The 2025 offseason saw investments in the offensive line and skill positions, creating a supportive environment for Williams. His 27 touchdown passes, just two shy of Kramer’s record, validate this approach.

Johnson’s revelations come at a pivotal time as the Bears prepare for their Wild Card matchup against the Green Bay Packers on January 10, 2026. Hosting at Soldier Field for the first playoff game since 2011, the Bears aim to end a 16-year drought without a postseason win.

Despite recent losses, including back-to-back defeats to end the regular season, Johnson’s confidence in Williams remains unshaken.

Critics might question granting such privileges to a 24-year-old, but Johnson dismissed doubts emphatically. “I will never regret giving him this privilege,” he asserted. Williams’ evolution from a “fragile” rookie to a confident leader has silenced skeptics.

His honest post-Lions assessment—”Not good enough”—mirrors Johnson’s fiery critique of the offense’s slow start, showing their aligned mindset.

The Bears’ success in 2025 defies expectations. Starting 11-4, their best since 2018, they led the NFC North for the first time since 2020. Johnson’s schemes, blending physicality and efficiency, have reshaped the roster.

The defense, ranked 13th last year, complemented the offense, though recent games exposed vulnerabilities that Johnson vows to address.

Williams’ influence extends beyond stats. His high-fives with fans and tunnel walks, like wearing Johnson’s high school jersey, endear him to Chicago. As the Bears eye a deep playoff run, potentially facing the Packers for a third time, Williams’ privileges could be the edge needed.

Johnson’s bold moves signal a shift from rebuild to contention.

Looking ahead, these privileges position Williams as the Bears’ present and future. With Johnson’s guidance, the team avoids the pitfalls of past regimes. The offense’s confidence heading into playoffs, despite the Lions loss, bodes well. Williams’ record-breaking season is just the beginning, as Johnson builds a winning culture.

In conclusion, Johnson’s disclosure of these three privileges—play-calling input, leadership authority, and personnel involvement—cements Williams’ central role. As the Bears chase Super Bowl aspirations, this dynamic duo embodies hope for a franchise long starved of success.

The playoffs will test their bond, but Johnson’s faith suggests brighter days ahead for Chicago.