Chicago Bears coach explains how he’s working to fix Caleb Williams’ accuracy issues.

When the Chicago Bears selected Caleb Williams as their franchise quarterback, expectations were sky-high. Williams, a dynamic talent with a rocket arm and electric playmaking ability, promised to revitalize a Bears offense that desperately needed a spark. However, like many rookie quarterbacks transitioning to the NFL, Caleb has faced challenges—most notably with his accuracy. The Bears coaching staff, led by head coach Ben Johnson and offensive coordinator Shane Waldron, have been diligent in addressing this issue head-on, implementing a comprehensive plan aimed at helping Williams sharpen his precision and elevate his overall game.

The Challenge: Understanding Caleb Williams’ Accuracy Issues

Caleb Williams’ rookie season has been a learning curve. While his athleticism and improvisational skills have impressed fans and analysts alike, his inconsistent accuracy has occasionally hampered offensive rhythm and stalled drives. From slightly overthrown deep balls to underthrown passes in tight coverage, these errors have made it clear that improving accuracy is essential for Caleb’s growth and the Bears’ success.

Head coach Ben Johnson has been transparent about recognizing this challenge. “We knew coming in that Caleb has an incredible skill set,” Johnson said in a recent press conference. “But accuracy in the NFL isn’t just about arm strength or talent—it’s about mechanics, decision-making, footwork, and timing. We’re committed to refining those areas to help him become the accurate passer we believe he can be.”

Mechanics: The Foundation of Accuracy

One of the first areas the Bears’ coaching staff has targeted is Caleb’s throwing mechanics. Accuracy starts with consistent, repeatable mechanics, and even slight deviations can result in errant throws.

Offensive coordinator Shane Waldron explained, “We’ve been working closely with Caleb to fine-tune his release point and throwing motion. It’s about making his delivery more compact and efficient. We break down every throw on film to identify where his mechanics might be slipping.”

The Bears have employed advanced technology in practice, including high-speed cameras and motion sensors, allowing coaches to analyze Williams’ throwing motion frame-by-frame. By identifying any inconsistencies—whether in his shoulder alignment, wrist snap, or foot positioning—the staff can provide immediate feedback.

Caleb himself has embraced this process. “It’s a lot of detail work,” he said. “But I know if I want to be elite, I have to put in the work every day. Coaches are helping me understand how small changes can make a big difference.”

Footwork and Timing Drills

Accuracy is not just about arm talent; it’s also about getting the body in the right position at the right time. The Bears have incorporated specialized footwork and timing drills into Caleb’s daily routine.

“Footwork is critical for setting up accurate throws,” Johnson said. “We focus on his dropback footwork, how he sets his feet when throwing on the run, and his ability to reset quickly after moving in the pocket.”

In practice sessions, Caleb runs through drills that simulate game scenarios—rolling out under pressure, making throws on the move, and resetting his feet to deliver precise passes. These drills help develop muscle memory and improve his ability to maintain accuracy even when under duress.

Additionally, the Bears have installed specific timing routes tailored to Caleb’s strengths. Working closely with wide receivers, Williams practices hitting precise spots within a tight window, which encourages faster reads and quicker, more accurate throws.

Mental Approach: Decision-Making and Patience

Accuracy isn’t just physical; it’s mental. Rushing throws often leads to poor accuracy, so the Bears’ coaches emphasize patience and better decision-making.

“We talk a lot about process with Caleb,” Waldron explained. “He’s a competitive player who wants to make every big play. But sometimes the best throw is the safe, accurate one. We work on helping him read defenses quickly and make the right decisions under pressure.”

The Bears have introduced film study sessions focusing on defensive schemes and coverage recognition to sharpen Caleb’s pre-snap and post-snap reads. By understanding what the defense is trying to do, Williams can anticipate open receivers better and avoid forcing throws.

Coach Johnson added, “It’s about trusting the offense and letting the play develop. The more confident he becomes in his reads, the more accurate he’ll be.”

Personalized Feedback and Support

The Bears understand that each player learns differently, so they provide Caleb with personalized feedback and support. From one-on-one sessions with quarterbacks coach Mike Bajakian to mental performance coaching, the team has created an environment focused on growth.

Quarterbacks coach Bajakian meets regularly with Caleb to review practice reps and game footage, offering detailed breakdowns and constructive criticism. “Our goal is to build his confidence and consistency,” Bajakian said. “We’re patient but persistent.”

Beyond the physical and technical aspects, the Bears have brought in sports psychologists to assist Caleb with managing the mental stress that comes with being an NFL rookie. Mental focus and calm under pressure are vital for accuracy, and these sessions help Caleb maintain composure.

Building Chemistry with Receivers

A quarterback’s accuracy also depends on timing and trust with his receivers. The Bears have dedicated significant practice time to building this chemistry.

“We work on routes, timing, and understanding each receiver’s tendencies,” said offensive coordinator Waldron. “The more in sync Caleb is with his targets, the better the accuracy will be.”

Caleb and his receivers spend extra time in practice running route concepts and adjusting to in-game variables like coverage shifts and pressure.

Wide receiver DJ Moore commented, “Caleb’s making great strides. When you’re on the same page with your quarterback, it just makes everything easier. We’re pushing each other to get better every day.”

Progress and Patience: A Journey, Not an Overnight Fix

Improving accuracy is a process, especially for a young quarterback adjusting to the NFL’s speed and complexity. Coach Johnson is realistic about the timeline but optimistic about Caleb’s potential.

“We’re seeing improvement every day,” Johnson said. “It’s about consistent work and learning from mistakes. Caleb’s a quick learner and very coachable, which bodes well for his future.”

Fans have already noticed positive changes. In recent practices and preseason games, Caleb’s throws have been sharper, and his decision-making more refined. The Bears are hopeful that as the season progresses, Caleb will continue to improve and lead the offense with both arm talent and precision.

The Chicago Bears’ coaching staff has taken a comprehensive, thoughtful approach to addressing Caleb Williams’ accuracy issues. From refining mechanics and footwork to emphasizing mental discipline and building receiver chemistry, the team is dedicated to helping their young quarterback reach his full potential.

Caleb Williams’ journey is a reminder that even the most talented athletes need time, coaching, and perseverance to succeed at the highest level. With the support of his coaches and teammates, and his own relentless work ethic, Caleb is on a promising path to becoming the accurate, dynamic quarterback the Bears envisioned when they drafted him.

As the 2025 season unfolds, all eyes will be on Caleb Williams to see how these improvements translate on the field. If the early signs are any indication, Bears fans have plenty to look forward to.