Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams eagerly awaits the team’s decision on a new head coach as the franchise continues its search for leadership.

Speaking on the St. Brown Podcast, Williams addressed the ongoing coaching search, making it clear that deciding who leads the team will play a significant role in his future with the Bears. The team has cast a wide net, interviewing at least 33 candidates for the head coach and general manager positions, including names like Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, former Washington Commanders head coach Ron Rivera, and Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator Matt Nagy.

Williams, who enjoyed a strong rookie season, emphasized the importance of strong leadership in his next head coach. When asked what he’s looking for in a leader, he pointed to qualities like mental strength and the ability to command respect from players.

“Strong-minded. A leader of men,” he said, referencing Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell as an example of the type of leader he admires.

The young quarterback also shared his preference for an offensive-minded coach, someone who can help him develop over the long term.

“Selfishly, I want an offensive-minded guy so I can build with him and be with that coach for the next 19, 17, 15 years,” Williams said. “So I can also learn and grow and things like that from him and what he’s seen and what he’s gone through with other QBs.”

Although Williams is inclined toward an offensive-minded coach, he stressed the importance of finding someone who can handle all aspects of coaching, including game management. Reflecting on an excruciating loss to the Detroit Lions on Thanksgiving, where coaching decisions regarding game clock management came under scrutiny, Williams noted the importance of time management and controlling the flow of the game.

“If we get an overall, like, grand-scheme coach (who) is good with time management, good with the clock, good with helping control the game … It’s a big factor, obviously,” he said.

While the Bears are still finalizing their choice, Caleb Williams has clarified that his primary goal remains winning championships. He remains hopeful that the new head coach will be someone he can build a long-term relationship with, both as a player and as a leader on the team.

As the coaching search continues, the Chicago Bears’ future and their star quarterback rests in the hands of the team’s next head coach.