The Chicago Bears face a 50 percent probability of starting a third-string quarterback in Week 3, a scenario triggered by Tyson Bagent's placement in the NFL concussion protocol. This development follows the franchise's confirmation that first-round pick Caleb Williams is week-to-week with a hamstring injury, leaving the roster depth chart exposed for Monday Night Football against the Philadelphia Eagles. The math on the backup corps is thin: with Williams out and Bagent in protocol, the only remaining option is veteran Case Keenum, who would make his first start since 2023 if called upon.
The injury to Bagent occurred during the 9-3 loss to the Minnesota Vikings, specifically on the final play where he was sacked by Dallas Turner. The timing is critical because Bagent had just entered the game at the end of that contest, completing 5 of 9 passes for 54 yards. Head coach Ben Johnson confirmed Williams is working through every available avenue to return but has not ruled him out entirely. However, the likelihood of Williams playing remains low, forcing the coaching staff to evaluate Bagent's clearance status this week. If Bagent does not clear protocol, his preparation time as the potential starter will be severely limited by the required stages of the concussion protocol.
| Player | Status | Last Start |
|---|---|---|
| Caleb Williams | Week-to-week | 2024 season |
| Tyson Bagent | Concussion protocol | 2023 (2-2 record) |
| Case Keenum | Available | 2023 (1-1 record) |
Keenum's involvement would mark a significant shift in the Bears' offensive leadership. The veteran has 66 starts in 80 career games, but he has not seen regular-season action since his time with the Houston Texans in 2023. That year, he went 1-1 in two starts. His previous NFL appearance was with the Cleveland Browns in 2021, where he went 2-0. If Keenum takes the field on Monday, the Bears would become the eighth team he has played for in his career. The Bears' decision hinges entirely on Bagent's medical clearance, a process that typically requires specific milestones to be met before a player can return to practice and play. Johnson's comments indicate a cautious approach, prioritizing the health of both Williams and Bagent while preparing for the worst-case scenario. The Eagles face a unique defensive challenge, as they will be preparing for a quarterback who has not started a game in over a year, or potentially one who has not started since the previous season. The outcome of this week's practice sessions will determine whether the Bears stick with their planned rotation or default to the veteran safety net.