The Chicago Bears are contending with a significant quarterback challenge as they prepare for their Week 3 encounter. While starting signal-caller Caleb Williams received more optimistic news regarding his hamstring injury than initially feared, he is still expected to miss time on the field.
Adding to the team's concerns, usual backup Tyson Bagent has reportedly entered the National Football League's concussion protocol. This development casts doubt on his availability for the upcoming "Monday Night Football" game against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Head coach Ben Johnson has not completely ruled out Williams, but given the high likelihood of his absence and Bagent potentially not clearing protocol in time, the Bears might be compelled to activate their third-string quarterback.
This scenario would elevate veteran Case Keenum to the starting role, marking his first NFL start since the 2023 season if he is called upon.
Quarterback Injuries Mount for Chicago
Bagent stepped in for the Bears late in their rainy 9-3 home opener loss to the Minnesota Vikings, following Williams' injury. He was sacked on the game's final play by Dallas Turner, which ultimately ended a potential game-winning drive.
The precise moment Bagent sustained his concussion remains unclear, though it is speculated that it could have occurred during that final play when he landed hard after the sack.
An undrafted quarterback, Bagent distinguished himself during his rookie 2023 season, achieving a 2-2 record in his four starts. He has served as the team's primary backup since Williams was selected first overall in the 2024 draft, not having started a game with Williams playing all 17 contests over the past two years.
Although Williams has not been officially sidelined, Coach Johnson indicated in his initial press conference ahead of the primetime NFC matchup that Williams would be considered week-to-week.
"He’s right now working through every avenue that he’s got available to get back on track here," Johnson told reporters. "We’ll see what that looks like."
Bagent concluded Sunday's loss with 5 completions on 9 attempts for 54 yards. His ability to adequately prepare as a potential starter this week will be closely watched, given the requirements of the concussion protocol stages.
Veteran Case Keenum Prepared to Step In
Keenum brings extensive experience to the table, having started 66 games out of 80 appearances throughout his professional career. However, he has not seen regular-season NFL action since 2023, when he was with the Houston Texans.
During his tenure with the Texans in 2023, he recorded a 1-1 record in two starts. Prior to that, he had a 2-0 stint with the Cleveland Browns in 2021.
Should he take the field for the Bears, it would mark the eighth franchise Keenum has represented during his NFL journey.