Ben Johnson addresses Caleb Williams trade before Bears-Panthers

The Chicago Bears dominated NFL headlines ahead of the 2023 NFL Draft. They traded the No. 1 overall pick to the Carolina Panthers in exchange for the ninth overall selection, wide receiver D. J. Moore and additional draft selections. Carolina used the top pick on Bryce Young, while Chicago selected first the following year and chose Caleb Williams. Ben Johnson discussed how the decision has impacted the franchise.

The Bears and Panthers will meet in Week 1 on Sunday to open their 2026 regular seasons. Carolina will serve as hosts at Bank of America Stadium, with both teams eyeing another playoff run. The Rams eliminated them last year, as Bryce Young and his team lost in the Wild Card Round. Williams and Co. suffered a 20-17 overtime defeat in the Divisional Round.

Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson (R) speaks during the Rookie Minicamp at Halas Hall. — Ben Johnson and Caleb Williams’ relationship will be crucial for Chicago Bears.

Chicago Bears: Ben Johnson opens up on 2023 Caleb Williams trade

Johnson stressed that he wasn’t part of Chicago in 2023. However, he highlighted the trade’s impact on both franchises, especially Williams’ on Chicago.

“I wasn’t here, but obviously, having Caleb in the building is a huge thing with where we are and where we’re going,” Johnson said. “And then, of course, we’re able to acquire a lot of draft picks from that as well. So I think we’ve got a solid foundation. I think they’re probably looking at it. Carolina has a good foundation as well. So it’s one of those things. Both teams feel us pretty good about the outcome and where we’re headed.”

Ben Johnson on the Bears/Panthers Trade:

“Well I wasn’t here, but obviously having Caleb is a huge thing and we acquired a lot of draft picks as well and we have a solid foundation and both teams felt good about the outcome.”

Carolina really helped us out pic.twitter.com/MbDj2xeDUb

— BearsMuse (@ChiBearsMuse) September 9, 2026

Johnson, Williams and the Bears have their sights set on surpassing last season’s success. They won the NFC North with an 11-6 record but face the league’s toughest schedule this year. The good news is they have a bolstered lineup and the quarterback’s leadership continues to grow. FOX will broadcast Sunday’s matchup live starting at 1 p.m. ET.