Chicago Bears backup quarterback Tyson Bagent hit the practice field on Saturday, opening the door for him to potentially start for the injured Caleb Williams against the Philadelphia Eagles on Monday in Week 3. Big news for a team looking to find their footing early in the season.
Back on the Field, Still in Protocol
Yeah, Bagent was out there, but don’t get it twisted: he’s still in concussion protocol. Coach Ben Johnson confirmed his return to practice, calling it a “key advancement” within the protocol. But for full clearance, Bagent needs consecutive symptom-free days after practice. Johnson played it cool about the starter, saying there’s “Still a lot of time between now and kickoff” and they’ll “let this process play out.” It’s the classic coach-speak, keeping everyone guessing. Will Bagent actually be ready, or is this just a tease for Bears fans?
The Case for Keenum or a “Big Day” Decision
Even with Bagent back, Johnson didn’t just hand him the starting job over fellow backup Case Keenum. When asked what he needed to see from Bagent, Johnson laid it out plain: “I need to see something from everybody today. Big day today.” That’s a strong message right there. Bagent was the top backup after Williams went down, but his concussion in the Week 2 loss to Minnesota (a 9-3 game where he completed 5 of 9 passes for 54 yards) totally clouded his availability. If Bagent isn’t fully cleared, Keenum, with his 66 career regular-season starts, steps in. Bagent, a former undrafted free agent out of Shepherd University, started four games as a rookie in 2023, going 2-2, and signed a two-year, $10 million extension with the Bears in 2025. His career completion percentage sits at 65.8% with a 73.0 passer rating. They know his game, but Keenum’s veteran presence is massive.
So, the clock is ticking for Monday’s showdown against the Eagles. Caleb Williams is officially out, with Johnson confirming he won’t practice Saturday. It’s either Bagent, fresh off concussion protocol, or the seasoned vet, Keenum, taking the snaps. This decision is everything for the Bears as they try to get a win on the board. Whoever it is, they’ve got their work cut out for them against Philly.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by CBS Sports.
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