Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson is keeping his starting quarterback decision under wraps for Sunday’s matchup against the New York Jets at Soldier Field. The team weighs a stellar performance from veteran Case Keenum against the recovery of young backup Tyson Bagent while regular starter Caleb Williams remains sidelined.
As the Chicago Bears prepare to host the New York Jets on Sunday afternoon, head coach Ben Johnson has declined to name his starting quarterback following a dominant 27-7 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles on September 28. The team finds itself navigating a sudden shift under center after regular starter Caleb Williams sustained a right hamstring injury in the fourth quarter of a Week 2 loss to Minnesota.
Case Keenum Steps In on Monday Night
With Williams sidelined and backup Tyson Bagent locked in the league’s concussion protocol, 38-year-old journeyman Case Keenum played his first regular-season game in more than 1,000 days. Keenum operated the offense with surgical precision, completing 24 of 34 passes for 247 yards, throwing two touchdowns, and scoring on a 1-yard quarterback sneak to finish with a 110.8 passer rating.
Running back D’Andre Swift praised the veteran’s preparation, noting that Keenum ran the offense from start to finish with infectious energy.
Tyson Bagent Clears Protocol and Competes for Snaps
Tyson Bagent returned to practice this week after making the difficult choice to report his concussion symptoms ahead of the Week 3 Monday night contest. Though reporting the injury cost him a chance to start against Philadelphia, Bagent expressed full support for his teammate from Division II Shepherd University.
“Obviously, I would like everything that the football world can offer me, but then there’s also the fact that I am from Shepherd University, so I have absolutely zero ego in this. And nobody is a bigger cheerleader and fan of Case Keenum than I am. I think he’s the epitome of what I believe a quarterback is supposed to be, so it was fun to watch him play.”
Tyson Bagent, Chicago Bears backup quarterback
Coaches have emphasized Bagent’s long-term value and high football intelligence. Offensive coordinator Press Taylor highlighted the 26-year-old’s mindset in meetings.
“He’s a guy that we’ve never felt like you have to worry about his mindset. I mean, he is one of the most locked in people I’ve ever been around.”
Press Taylor, Chicago Bears offensive coordinator
Ben Johnson Keeps Starting Plans Secret Against the Jets
As the Bears prepare to face the New York Jets and former Lions coordinator Aaron Glenn, head coach Ben Johnson has weaponized his roster uncertainty to keep opponents guessing. Johnson confirmed on Wednesday that the team is evaluating all options based on who gives them the best chance to win.
“We’re looking at everything, and so he played really well the other night. Sure, that plays a part of the evaluation.”
Ben Johnson, Chicago Bears head coach
Meanwhile, Caleb Williams continues to recover from his Grade 2 hamstring strain and has been ruled out for his second consecutive game. The Bears are also forced to adjust along the offensive line, as left tackle Braxton Jones is ruled out for the game, clearing the way for Theo Benedet to start at left tackle.
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