Chicago Bears backup quarterback Tyson Bagent has cleared the NFL concussion protocol and is practicing Saturday, according to ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter. The update comes just two days before the Bears host the Philadelphia Eagles on Monday Night Football.
Bagent entered the protocol earlier this week after relieving starter Caleb Williams during Chicago’s 9-3 Week 2 loss to the Minnesota Vikings. Williams left that game with a right hamstring injury and is considered week-to-week. Bagent completed 5 of 9 passes for 54 yards in limited action.
The timing of Bagent’s concussion has drawn extra attention. Bears coach Ben Johnson indicated it likely occurred on an earlier play rather than the final sack of the game, meaning Bagent continued playing after the injury. NFL concussion protocol requires a player to complete multiple steps, including practice participation and clearance from an independent neurologist, before returning to game action.
Williams has not practiced this week and is not expected to start Monday. That had left veteran Case Keenum, who has not thrown a regular-season pass since 2023, as the likely starter. Bagent’s return to practice Saturday gives Chicago a more experienced option behind center and improves overall quarterback depth for the primetime matchup.
The Bears and Eagles kick off at 8:15 p.m. ET on Monday, September 28, at Soldier Field. The game airs on ESPN and ABC. Chicago sits at 1-1 while Philadelphia is 2-0. Bagent’s availability will be closely watched on the official injury report later this weekend.
Bears fans now have a clearer picture of the quarterback situation heading into a nationally televised game against a strong Eagles defense. Whether Bagent starts or serves as the primary backup, his clearance marks a positive development after a chaotic week at the position.