Bears Set to Start Bagent Over Keenum Despite Monday Night Heroics

Key points

• Tyson Bagent is expected to start for the Bears in Week 4 against the Jets, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport and The Athletic’s Dan Wiederer.
• Bagent took the majority of first-team reps in practice this week, despite Case Keenum’s strong performance in Week 3.
• Caleb Williams remains out with a hamstring injury and is expected to miss at least one more week.
• Case Keenum, who led the Bears to a 27-7 win over the Eagles in Week 3, will likely serve as the backup quarterback.
• Head coach Ben Johnson has not officially named a starter but has indicated a preference for Bagent, who signed a two-year, $10 million extension in August 2025.

Background

The Bears’ quarterback situation has been in flux since Caleb Williams suffered a hamstring injury in Week 2. Tyson Bagent entered concussion protocol after Week 2, leading to Case Keenum’s start in Week 3. Williams is expected to return in Week 5 or 6, but Bagent’s strong practice performance and contract extension suggest he will remain the primary backup.

How outlets are covering it

NBC Sports and NFL.com both report that Bagent is expected to start, citing Ian Rapoport and Dan Wiederer. USA Today argues that Bagent is the better choice due to his mobility and the Bears’ preference for him, while also noting Keenum’s strong performance. ESPN’s article is unavailable, so no perspective can be drawn from it.

Why it matters

The decision to start Bagent over Keenum could impact the Bears’ offensive strategy and fantasy football value. Bagent’s mobility and arm strength may offer more options for Ben Johnson’s offense, while Keenum’s strong performance in Week 3 suggests he could be a valuable backup. The decision also reflects the Bears’ long-term plans for their quarterback depth chart.

What to watch

The Bears will face the Jets in Week 4, with Bagent expected to start. Williams is expected to return in Week 5 or 6, and Keenum will likely serve as the backup. The Bears’ performance in Week 4 will provide insight into their quarterback depth and offensive strategy.