A prank was played on Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams when he received misleading texts from someone impersonated as Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, claiming Johnson had accepted the Bears' head-coaching job. The fan behind the prank had emulated Johnson's communication style well enough to catch Williams off guard.
At around 7:54 PM on Friday, Williams received the cheeky text stating, “Hey Caleb, this is Ben Johnson. Just wanted to reach out ahead of time before it gets released to the media, I will be taking the HC job. Very excited to work with you in the future. Great things.” Initially hesitant, the 23-year-old star stepped up his excitement upon receiving another affirmation, seemingly convinced he was jubilantly preparing to work with the favored offensive guru.
“I’m def excited for the future! Let’s get this [expletive] going and turn it around n do what hasn’t been done in years!” Williams responded eagerly. His enthusiasm was palpable, indicating his desire for new leadership under the Bears' helm.
But to Williams' dismay, he soon discovered he had been pranked when the fan—who had orchestrated this elaborate ruse—FaceTimed him, laughing about the deception. “Hey, you’re a great QB but I’m so glad you’re going to get a new head coach,” the fan said, apologizing to Williams as the reality set in.
For all his potential, Williams' rookie season was not without its pitfalls. He passed for 3,541 yards and threw 20 touchdowns alongside six interceptions but struggled with poor play-calling from former head coach Matt Eberflus and offensive coordinator Shane Waldron. The lack of effective strategies was widely considered to have stunted Williams’ development, making the prospect of having a skilled offensive mind like Johnson enticing for his future.
Johnson is widely regarded as one of the top candidates for the head coaching position, and previews of the team’s search process only heighten anticipation for Bears fans and players alike. Over the weekend, the Bears scheduled interviews with Johnson and Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn for the vacant head coach position. They already conducted discussions with notable names from around the league, including former Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll and former Titans head coach Mike Vrabel.
The fact remains, the prank not only entertained the young quarterback but also showcased his personality and openness to change. Seeing his excitement, even under the false pretenses of the prank, hints at who he hopes to lead the Bears going forward.
Fans have reacted with support for Williams’ good humor about the situation, acknowledging the pressures of waiting over who the Bears will bring on as their next leader. The comedic angle, with the fan coordinating the prank through text and video call, elevated what could have been yet another day of uncertainty for both fans and players surrounding the head coach search.
With many eyes on the Bears' next move, this light-hearted moment is one for the books—a reminder to relish the joy of sports, even through the tension of hiring dynamics and pivotal seasons. Here’s hoping Williams gets the offensive guidance he clearly craves, with Johnson being positioned as the perfect fit to potentially address both his needs and the team's aspirations.