Coach Matt Eberflus shared the list with reporters on Monday at Halas Hall. The captains include quarterback Caleb Williams, receiver DJ Moore, tight ends Cole Kmet and Marcedes Lewis, linebackers Tremaine Edmunds and T.J. Edwards, cornerback Jaylon Johnson, and safety Kevin Byard III.
Eberflus commented, This is a really strong group. I know it’s larger than usual, but our leadership base is more extensive than in previous years. As we enter our third season, I have a lot of confidence in these players. They understand that the core principle of leadership is to lead by example in work ethic and when they need to speak up.
But above all, they should lead through their actions. It’s crucial that our top players demonstrate our standards every day. I’m enthusiastic about their role in our leadership.
Williams is the first rookie in Bears history to be named a season-long captain.
I haven’t seen that before, Eberflus remarked. It’s a strong indicator of the leadership he’s shown across the entire team.
Eberflus’ advice to the rookie quarterback is to “just be yourself and stay authentic. Let things develop naturally, which he’s been doing. He’s been working incredibly hard, preparing diligently, and showing great enthusiasm in both practice and games. It will all come together for him naturally.
Veteran teammates were not surprised by Williams being chosen as a captain.
He went out there and showed his leadership, taking charge of the offense, Moore noted.
He keeps coming in and being exactly who we hoped he’d be, Johnson added. We brought him in for a reason, and he continues to live up to that expectation, raising the bar for himself. It’s not surprising at all to see him named QB1.
Williams quickly earned the respect of his teammates.
When you show up every day like he does and handle the challenges, especially facing our defense, and you see his dedication day in and day out, it’s hard not to respect that and want him as a captain,” Moore said.
Although Moore was never a captain during his five seasons with the Panthers, he has been chosen by his Bears teammates for the second consecutive year.
“I’m not sure if it’s because I’m popular or because I’m a true leader,” he said with a grin. “I lead by example. I think it’s a bit of both—I’m like the class clown but serious when needed. I think that’s what people notice when we’re on the field.”
Johnson was honored to be named a captain for the first time.
Honestly, it’s a big deal,” he said. “I was surprised when I got a text from position coach Jon Hoke; I couldn’t believe it at first.”
Last season, Johnson earned a Pro Bowl selection and second-team All-Pro honors after leading the Bears with a career-high four interceptions, including a 39-yard touchdown return, and recording 36 tackles and 10 pass breakups.
While the captaincy is a significant honor, Johnson doesn’t plan to alter his approach to the season.
It’s about continuing to be myself,” Johnson said. “Nothing changes; I’ll keep working hard and leading by example. The goals I have remain the same, but I’m definitely proud to wear that ‘C’ on my chest.
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