Jason Whitlock’s tone on Caleb Williams shifts as Bears quarterback shows growth and playoff grit following Bears' win against Packers

For nearly two years, Jason Whitlock’s criticism of Caleb Williams lingered as a talking point whenever the discussion about the Bears came up. Whitlock once questioned whether Williams’ play style and mannerisms could ever fit inside an NFL locker room. However, his perception of the QB has shifted significantly after their recent game.

After Chicago’s dramatic 31-27 comeback win over Green Bay and a long-awaited playoff breakthrough, Whitlock is now pointing out the immense growth in Williams. He points out that Ben Johnson’s leadership and keen eye have had a massive influence on the team’s upgrade this season, with Williams making a big impact.

Ben Johnson’s influence and a changing conversation around leadership

On Monday, Whitlock credited the Bears’ decision to hire Ben Johnson as a key reason behind Williams’ evolution. In a clip shared on X, he said, "They went out and got the best coach from last year's hiring cycle, Ben Johnson." He also added how the coach has improved QB Williams into a bona fide player, a level that he never expected.


Singing praises of the coach, Whitlock stated that Johnson has "discipled and developed Caleb Williams into a guy that, within eight to 10, 12 months, has turned into a locker room leader." This came as a total surprise to Whitlock, as he did not trust Williams to become a standout in the pro-testosterone environment.

He said, "I never thought Williams would work in a locker room, not in a masculine locker room environment," while describing Johnson’s presence as "all that over-the-top macho stuff" that is now "leaking over into Caleb Williams, allowing (him) to become a leader himself." It was a stark contrast to his stance in 2024, when he dubbed Williams as feminine.

This season, Williams impressed many with his impeccable talent and proved his haters wrong. He led Chicago to an 11-6 record, an NFC North title, and their first playoff win in 15 games. Against Green Bay, he threw for 361 yards, accounted for two touchdowns, and scored the game-winner late in the fourth quarter. The Bears will next face the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday, January 18, 2026.

Also read: Is Caleb Williams dating Ash Kaashh? Influencer’s playful Bears vs. Packers post ignites fan speculation

Get the latest WPL 2026 updates including WPL teams, full WPL 2026 schedule, and live scores for Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, UP Warriorz, Gujarat Giants, and Delhi Capitals. Also check the latest WPL Orange Cap and Purple Cap standings.