Netizens Are in an Uproar Ben Johnson Turns Caleb Williams into Jared Goff 2.0 Are the Bears Self Destructing

The NFL world is buzzing with controversy as Chicago Bears fans and football analysts alike take to the internet in outrage. The reason? Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson’s handling of rookie quarterback Caleb Williams. Many claim the highly touted number one overall pick is being molded into a version of Jared Goff — a safe, system-dependent passer rather than the dynamic playmaker fans were promised. The reaction online has been swift, loud, and unforgiving.

The Arrival of Caleb Williams and the Weight of Expectations

When the Chicago Bears selected Caleb Williams as the first overall pick in the NFL Draft, expectations soared. Williams arrived with comparisons to Patrick Mahomes, praised for his arm talent, mobility, and ability to improvise under pressure. Bears fans believed they were witnessing the beginning of a franchise-changing era.

However, just a few games into the preseason system installation, concerns have started to emerge. Caleb Williams appears restrained, his decision-making overly cautious, and his natural creativity stifled. Critics say this isn’t the Williams that lit up college football — this is Jared Goff 2.0.

Ben Johnson’s System Under the Microscope

Ben Johnson, known for his strategic mind and previously successful tenure with the Detroit Lions, brought a playbook designed around timing, structure, and minimizing turnovers. This worked well with Jared Goff, a quarterback who thrives on rhythm and discipline. But is that the right fit for someone like Caleb Williams?

According to online analysts, Johnson is trying to plug Williams into the exact same framework he used with Goff — short reads, predictable progressions, and minimal risk. But Williams was never a system QB in college. He thrived in chaos, created magic outside the pocket, and took chances that often paid off. Reducing that to a check-down game is what has netizens in uproar.

Social Media Reacts With Fury and Frustration

Across X (formerly Twitter), Reddit, and fan forums, the reaction has been explosive. Phrases like “wasting generational talent”, “Ben Johnson ruining another QB”, and “Caleb is not Goff!” are trending among Bears fans. Many fear this early direction will strip Williams of his natural instincts and confidence.

Some users have even started petitions calling for greater flexibility in the offensive scheme, demanding that Williams be allowed to play his game. Others have drawn comparisons to past Bears quarterback mishandling — pointing to Justin Fields, Mitchell Trubisky, and Jay Cutler as cautionary tales.

Are the Bears Setting Themselves Up for Failure Again

This isn’t just about coaching style — it’s about identity. If the Bears truly want to turn their franchise around, they must build an offense around what makes Caleb Williams special. Trying to force him into a mold that doesn’t fit could not only stunt his development but alienate a fanbase desperate for success.

Ben Johnson’s credentials cannot be ignored, and his system brought results in Detroit. But every quarterback is different. The Bears’ challenge now is to find the right balance between structure and freedom — allowing Williams to flourish without descending into chaos.

The Bigger Picture for the 2025 NFL Season

As the 2025 season looms, all eyes are on the Windy City. Will the Bears course-correct in time to let Caleb Williams shine? Or will this become another chapter in Chicago’s long history of quarterback woes?

Insiders suggest changes could come quickly if offensive production falters early in the season. Williams reportedly remains focused and professional despite the noise, but sources close to the team say internal discussions are already underway to tweak the approach.

Conclusion A Franchise at a Crossroads

The Bears have the talent. They have the fan support. And in Caleb Williams, they may have their long-awaited superstar. But none of that will matter if the coaching staff refuses to adapt. Netizens are not overreacting — they’re sounding the alarm on what could become another wasted opportunity. The Bears must decide, and fast, whether they’re building around a generational talent or simply forcing him into another system quarterback mold.