As May draws to a close, the Chicago Bears are buzzing with activity at Halas Hall, with Organized Team Activities (OTAs) in full swing. From the highly anticipated development of rookie quarterback Caleb Williams under new head coach Ben Johnson, to pressing questions at the running back position and ongoing stadium sagas, there’s no shortage of storylines for Bears fans.
OTAs in Full Swing: The Bears are currently in the second week of Organized Team Activities (OTAs) at Halas Hall. Practice snaps and observations are being released, with a focus on how the new coaching staff is setting standards and working with players.
Caleb Williams Development: There’s significant attention on rookie QB Caleb Williams. He’s reportedly benefiting from the experienced coaching staff and QB room, including mentorship from head coach Ben Johnson and veteran Case Keenum. Johnson is working with Williams on everything from mechanics to body language. PFF has given Williams a strong endorsement for the upcoming season.
Running Back Situation: The running back position is a hot topic. While D’Andre Swift is the current starter, some reports suggest a “brutal reality” for the Bears’ offense at this position, with Swift not making PFF’s top 32 running backs. There are ongoing discussions about the Bears potentially signing a veteran free agent like Nick Chubb to bolster the backfield, especially after a tough message from coach Ben Johnson to rookie running back Kyle Monangai during practice.
Linebacker Play: Discussions are ongoing about the linebacker corps, particularly the value of TJ Edwards and the performance of Tremaine Edmunds. In Dennis Allen’s new system, the linebackers have been on the move as the team looks to find the best grouping.
Ben Johnson’s Impact: New head coach Ben Johnson is a central figure in the Bears’ offseason. He’s reportedly aiming for no “skipped steps” with Caleb Williams, a contrast to previous coaching regimes. Insiders predict a significant increase in play-action calls under Johnson’s new offensive scheme, which is expected to be more dynamic with the added pass-catching talent.
Holding Players Accountable: Reports indicate that the new coaching staff is holding players to a higher standard during OTAs.
Arlington Heights Focus: The Bears’ plans for a new stadium appear to be shifting towards Arlington Heights after difficulties with a downtown Chicago location. Some reports suggest Governor J.B. Pritzker is being blamed for the failure of the downtown stadium talks.
Preseason Primetime: The Bears are slated to have another primetime preseason game in 2025.
Red Line Doubleheader: There’s a planned “Red Line Doubleheader” in 2025, featuring the Bears playing the Bills in a Sunday night preseason game at Soldier Field after a Cubs game at Wrigley.
Caleb Williams Book Controversy: Caleb Williams addressed questions about an excerpt from a new book that suggested he tried to avoid being drafted by the Bears.
