Ben Johnson Says Caleb Williams Is ‘Close,’ But The Bears Just Saw What Happens Without Him

Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson sounded optimistic about franchise quarterback Caleb Williams potentially returning to the lineup soon, but that optimism clashes hard with the reality of the team’s crushing defeat to the Green Bay Packers on Sunday. While the Bears managed a 2-1 record without Williams, who injured his hamstring in a Week 2 loss to the Minnesota Vikings, the “sheer ineptitude” of backup quarterback Tyson Bagent at Lambeau Field made it brutally clear: they need their guy back, and fast.

Caleb Williams’ Return Is ‘Imminent,’ But Not a Sure Thing

Johnson didn’t hold back in his postgame press conference, making it sound like Williams’ return to the Chicago lineup could be “imminent.” He told reporters Williams is “close” to getting back on the field. That’s huge news, especially after Williams started practicing again last Friday, albeit in a “limited capacity.” This has to be an encouraging sign for Bears fans who are desperate to see their star QB back.

However, Johnson also tapped the brakes on a “100 percent commitment” for Williams to definitely play in the Week 6 road matchup against the Atlanta Falcons. Soft-tissue injuries are notoriously tricky, and the coach is clearly being cautious. At the absolute worst, Williams will be a game-time decision next Sunday. So, while the hope is high, nobody’s calling it a done deal just yet.

The Falcons Are Coming, and Bijan Robinson Is Firing

The reality check hit hard against the Packers, but let’s not forget the Bears actually strung together consecutive wins against the Philadelphia Eagles and New York Jets before the wheels fell off. That showed some grit, but relying on a backup QB for too many weeks eventually catches up to every team, and it sure did for Chicago.

Now, they’re looking ahead to a tough road game against the Atlanta Falcons, a team described as “gaining steam” behind the “prolific Bijan Robinson.” Make no mistake, if Chicago wants to leave Atlanta with a win, they’re “likely” going to “need a healthy Williams firing on all cylinders.” This week will be a “pivotal ramp-up period” for the third-year quarterback. All eyes are on how Williams progresses in practice, because the Bears desperately need him to be more than just “close” when Sunday rolls around.

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Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.