​IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters ConnectBen Johnson has plenty of ideas. Caleb Williams doesn’t have to love all of them.That might sound like a recipe for an awkward meeting between a demanding play-caller and his young quarterback. Williams describes something much more useful: a conversation that can end with him understanding a play better — or with Johnson deciding it shouldn’t be called.The Bears coach wants to expand what his quarterback can handle. He also wants the player executing the plan to believe in it.Williams explained how they navigate that balance during his Nov. 4 press conference.“When he calls something and I don’t like it, we go up in the office, we sit down, we talk about it, he shows me clips,” Williams said.Sep 21, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson talks with quarterback Caleb Williams (18) against the Dallas Cowboys during the second half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn ImagesThe next part was particularly revealing. “If I still don’t like it … he won’t call it.”That is a meaningful boundary in a partnership built around asking Williams to do more. Johnson can design a play, explain its advantages and show examples of why it should work. But the quarterback still has to recognize the situation, trust the answer and deliver the ball.A clever drawing doesn’t gain many yards by itself.Williams said the discussions usually get them to a comfortable place. They watch multiple clips, work through the concept and establish where they want the ball to go. By the end, he typically feels good about what Johnson is proposing.The process gives Johnson a chance to challenge his quarterback without making agreement a substitute for understanding. That distinction matters because Williams isn’t asking to remain inside a small collection of familiar calls. Asked about being pushed beyond his comfort zone, he welcomed it.“That’s how you grow,” he said. “That’s how you get better.”Oct 11, 2026; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson looks on during warmups before the game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-Imagn ImagesJohnson had described the same relationship earlier that day. The coaching staff wants to attack defenses while building on what Chicago has already shown opponents. That requires Williams to remain open to new possibilities.“The good news about him is there’s not a throw he can’t make on the football field,” Johnson said.The challenge, then, extends beyond physical ability. Williams might be capable of making a throw without yet feeling comfortable with the concept that creates it. Johnson’s job includes helping him connect those pieces through explanation and practice.Seattle provided a demanding example.The Bears gave Williams substantial responsibility against a defense capable of presenting different fronts and pressures. He had to identify what he was seein