Caleb Williams is on the verge of making Chicago Bears history in 2026. He threw 3,942 yards in 2025, just shy of the 4,000-yard mark.
What's at stake for Caleb Williams?
The Bears have never had a 4,000-yard passer in franchise history. Matt Odaka of NFL Network notes that 4,000 is the number that will define the Bears in 2026.
Caleb Williams was close last year, despite being in an unfamiliar offense. He was learning his second offensive system and working with his third offensive coordinator.
Can Caleb Williams improve in 2026?
With a full offseason to debrief and understand the offense, Williams has a good chance to improve. The skill players lost D.J. Moore, but this opens more targets for Colston Loveland and Luther Burden.
The Bears' defense is their biggest question. The unit might not be as good as the year prior, which could lead to more shootouts. Williams will be more equipped to handle them.
What's the case against Caleb Williams reaching 4,000 yards?
Ben Johnson is always going to lean on the run. Their offensive line should remain a strength, and they will continue to go to their two-headed attack at running back.
The team is also expected to win more games this year. Last year, they were a young team with a first-year head coach. Now that the team knows what they want, it should be easier to take hold of leads and control games more often.
Caleb Williams has the best chance yet to make Bears history in 2026. If it's going to happen, this year is more likely than others. The Bears might not want Williams to hit 4,000 yards, but he's ready for the challenge.