The Chicago Bears wrapped up their third day of training camp practice on Friday. While pads have yet to come on, some early trends are beginning to emerge — and not all of them are encouraging for the offense.
As is often the case early in camp, the defense is ahead of the offense. That’s normal. But given the Bears history, it’s understandable why fans might feel uneasy hearing those familiar words again: the offense is off to a slow start.
This time, things are supposed to be different. Ben Johnson is now in charge. Caleb Williams is in year two. The scheme is new. Yet, through three practices, the results feel all too familiar.
A Work In Progress
Friday’s session was another tough outing for Williams and the first team offense. In 7 on 7s, Williams failed to complete a single pass — throwing two interceptions and suffering a drop. He did bounce back in full team drills, connecting for touchdowns with Rome Odunze and Olamide Zaccheaus. The two-minute drill ended in a field goal after a pair of drops by D’Andre Swift stalled the drive.
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So yes, the offense is still a work in progress. That’s expected. But it’s also fair to say some — myself included — anticipated Williams would look more polished. That’s where some of the concern creeps in. Is he ready to lead a Ben Johnson-run offense?
To his credit, Williams asked to be coached hard, and he’s getting exactly that. Johnson warned from the start this wouldn’t be easy—and that some days wouldn’t be fun. He was right.
There will be better days ahead. This is just the beginning. But for a fan base used to slow starting offenses, it’s hard not to feel a little anxious when the early returns look all too familiar.
Still, it’s only been three practices. It’s way too early to panic.
