Chicago Bears’ Caleb Williams draws Pete Crow-Armstrong comparison before comeback campaign

If the Chicago Bears wanted to truly undergo a resurgence in 2025, quarterback Caleb Williams needs to take a giant step forward. Luckily for him, there’s already a blossoming superstar in Chicago for him to emulate.

It’s not like Williams had a truly disaster rookie season, as he still broke the Bears rookie passing yard (3,541) and passing touchdown record (20). However, he didn’t live up to his lofty No. 1 pick expectations. Still, only in his second season in the NFL, Chicago still has massive confidence in their quarterback.

The city has seen Chicago Cubs center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong go on a tear to start the 2025 season. He is batting .265 with nine home runs, 27 RBI and 12 stolen bases. That is despite the fact that Crow-Armstrong hit just .237 with 10 home runs, 47 stolen bases over 123 total games in 2024.

While in two completely different sports, Williams can learn a lot from Crow Armstrong’s resurgence. Marc Silverman of Shaw Local is urging the quarterback to take on some of PCA’s approach as he prepares for year two.

“As a reminder, it’s not as simple as feeling more comfortable in year two versus year one. PCA made real adjustments to his hitting fundamentals. I’m not asking Caleb to redo his throwing mechanics, but I sure hope he’s been in the lab,” Williams said. “His deep ball accuracy was the most disappointing part of his physical skills and his footwork needed work. The biggest issue was holding on to the ball too long and processing things quicker. It wasn’t nearly as bad as Justin Fields, but anyone not willing to say it’s an issue is in denial.”

“PCA has shown what it means to a team and it’s fanbase when the player bounces back and lives up to their potential. The Cubs also knew that adding a player like Kyle Tucker would only help take the pressure off,” Silverman continued. “Poles has followed a similar game plan by dealing for all-pro Joe Thuney, while also rebuilding the offensive line.”

Chicago Bears desperate for Caleb Williams comeback

The Bears have spent all offseason building their offense around Williams. New head coach Ben Johnson was one of the most coveted names available on the market. He gives Williams not only a fierce offensive playbook to work with, but a pivotal leader and mentor to build with.

On the field, Chicago completely bolstered the offensive line in front of him while adding even more playmakers. Guards Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson, alongside center Drew Dalman should ensure Williams stays upright in the pocket more often. Wide receiver Luther Burden and tight end Colston Loveland joining a litany a potent pass catchers gives Williams a number of strong options to target.

But the Bears have gone as far as they can, outside of adding a new running back. For all the additions they’ve made, it is up to Williams to prove he can adapt and live up to his No. 1 pick title. Of the adjustments he needs to make, the largest is holding onto the ball too long. Chicago allowed a league-high 68 sacks in 2024. While the offensive line play wasn’t pretty, Williams didn’t do himself many favors.

The Bears are hopeful that with an actual offensive plan in place, Williams will not need to wait for a play to develop downfield. He will have multiple reads to different pass catching options, allowing the quarterback to make quick decisions in the pocket. The big play will come available once Williams and the Bears prove they can move the ball forward consistently.

While way to early in the season to start standings watching, the Cubs lead the NL Central with their 22-16 record. That’s largely due to the work on Crow-Armstrong. If Johnson can elevate Williams to Chicago and the NFL’s expectations, the Bears will see a rise up the standings as well.