Everyone’s doing season previews — but we’re doing something different. The
Captains’ Code is all about what really makes or breaks an NFL team. It’s not just about rosters or vibes. It’s about the identity, the pressure points, the bold calls, and the one thing that could send everything crashing down… or finally take them over the top. No filler. Just straight-up football breakdowns that tell you what actually matters heading into 2025.
The X-Factor That Will Make or Break This Season
Quarterback Caleb Williams. It’s the obvious pick, but also the right one. Williams can either break free and fulfill his potential or continue to struggle in Year 2. Which path he takes will determine everything. His rookie numbers were rough, but with a full year under his belt and a new head coach in Ben Johnson, maybe the Bears have the key to unlock the quarterback they drafted No. 1 overall.
Last Year’s Numbers:
Passing Yards: 3,541 (rookie franchise record)
Passing Touchdowns: 20
Completion Percentage: 62.5%
Passer Rating: 87.8
Sacked: 68 times (franchise-high)
Rushing Yards (QB): 489
Consecutive passes without interception: 354 (rookie record, fourth-longest in NFL history)
Key Player(s) to Watch: The Heroes and the Wild Cards
CB Tyrique Stevenson. The defense’s rough 2024 stretch, most remembered by Stevenson’s high-profile tipped Hail Mary, does cast a shadow over his second season. The coaches chose not to look at the past mistake, but Bears fans definitely haven’t forgotten it.
Coaching: What’s Different This Year?
Head Coach: Ben Johnson replaces Matt Eberflus
Defensive Coordinator: Dennis Allen (new hire)
Offensive Coordinator: Declan Doyle (new hire)
Running Backs Coach: Eric Bieniemy (new hire)
Quarterbacks Coach: J.T. Barrett (new hire)
DBs/Pass Game Coordinator: Al Harris (new hire)
Offensive Line Coach: Dan Roushar (new hire)
The Bold Prediction
Caleb Williams and the Bears shock the league with a real turnaround and actually make the playoffs.
The Realistic Win Total & Why
9–8.
The Bears start slow, but heat up late and ride that momentum to a Week 18 playoff-clinching win.
The Biggest Question Mark Heading Into 2025
Can the offensive line give Caleb Williams enough protection to let him grow?
My Takeaway
This season hinges entirely on how Williams handles Year 2. I believe in Caleb to turn it around this year, but the NFC North will chew this team up if they don’t perform.
I expect them to get a playoff spot, a lot of money and draft capital has been spent, it needs to start paying some dividends.