Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Sep 22
Tyson Bagent to Make First Bears Start Since 2023 as Caleb Williams Goes Week to Week
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Sep 22

Tyson Bagent to Make First Bears Start Since 2023 as Caleb Williams Goes Week to Week

3 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Sep 22

Summary

  • Tyson Bagent is set to start Monday against Philadelphia after Caleb Williams suffered a right hamstring strain in Chicago’s 9-3 loss to Minnesota and was labeled week to week.
  • Monday’s game will be Bagent’s first start since November 2023, with the Bears preparing for an offense that likely leans more on his decision-making, distribution and mobility than Williams’ off-script arm talent.
  • Ben Johnson said he is comfortable with the switch because Bagent has worked in the system for a year and a half, with extensive practice, camp and preseason reps already in place.
  • Teammates including D’Andre Swift, Jonah Jackson and Cole Kmet publicly backed Bagent, reflecting broad confidence in his preparation and command as he steps into a potentially career-shaping stretch.

Insights

Can an undrafted backup's quick-throw style actually save the Bears' season while their star quarterback recovers?
Could a forced shift to a run-heavy, controlled offense secretly be exactly what Chicago needs right now?