Caleb Williams flashed elite potential early, but Chicago’s season opener unraveled in the fourth quarter against Minnesota, a collapse that turned a 17-6 lead into a defeat. The Bears were undone by 12 penalties, a spate of pre-snap issues, and critical special-teams miscues, including Cairo Santos missing a 50-yard try that swung momentum and a controversial Darnell Wright holding call that killed a red-zone opportunity. JJ McCarthy for Minnesota seized the moment, delivering three touchdowns and leading a decisive late drive to seal the comeback.

From a fantasy lens, Williams showed splash-play ability and mobility, yet the rhythm and accuracy slipped as the game wore on, underscoring a learning curve for Ben Johnson’s offense. The Bears’ run game and checkdown efficiency were interim at best, while the Vikings adjusted and punched back. Detroit looms in Week 2, a reminder that Chicago needs cleaner operation and better special-teams consistency to avoid a rough early-season pothole.