Bears Name Case Keenum Starting Quarterback Over Tyson Bagent for Eagles Game
Despite clearing concussion protocol, Bagent will not start due to insufficient preparation time, according to reports.
The Chicago Bears have opted for veteran Case Keenum to start at quarterback against the Philadelphia Eagles on Monday night, passing over Tyson Bagent. Bagent, the primary backup, had cleared concussion protocol after suffering an injury in the previous week's game against the Minnesota Vikings.
According to Fox Sports' Jay Glazer, the decision was made because the team felt Bagent did not have enough time to prepare adequately to face the Eagles' defense. Keenum, who has 11 seasons of NFL experience and 66 starts, will step in for the injured Caleb Williams.
Williams, the Bears' first overall pick in the 2024 draft, is sidelined with a Grade 2 hamstring strain and is expected to miss three to four weeks. He was forced out of the Bears' Week 2 loss to the Vikings, leading to Bagent's substitution. Bagent completed 5 of 9 passes and was sacked on the final play of that game.
If Keenum falters, Bagent will be available off the bench. This marks the first game Williams will miss since being drafted by the Bears. The team, currently 1-1, is scheduled to host the New York Jets on Oct. 4.