The Chicago Bears are expected to start quarterback Tyson Bagent against the New York Jets, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. Coach Ben Johnson did not publicly name the starter, but sources indicate Bagent took the majority of first-team reps during the week. Case Keenum will serve as the backup.
Caleb Williams remains out with a Grade 2 hamstring strain, expected to miss three to four weeks. Bagent's last start was 1,059 days ago, in a 2023 win over the Carolina Panthers. He started four games as a rookie while Justin Fields was injured.
Bagent suffered a concussion on Sept. 20 and cleared protocol just last Sunday, which is why he didn't start in Week 3. Despite the Bears' second win of the season, Johnson reiterated that Bagent was named backup in training camp "for a reason." The coaching staff is split on whether to play the hot hand or stick with the established depth chart, with Johnson noting both quarterbacks are well-prepared to win.
Source: ESPN NFL · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing