Case Keenum isn’t scheduled to start against the Green Bay Packers on October 11 because the Chicago Bears are sticking with Tyson Bagent, their preferred backup behind Caleb Williams. Keenum impressed in his opportunity against Philadelphia, but Bagent returned to lead the offense against the New York Jets and is slated to do so again in Week 5.
The Bears’ official game preview identifies Bagent as the planned starter while Williams continues recovering from a hamstring injury.
Why Are the Bears Choosing Tyson Bagent Over Case Keenum?
The decision reflects Chicago’s quarterback hierarchy and the coaching staff’s confidence in Bagent.
Bagent earned the No. 2 quarterback position behind Williams. Keenum’s strong performance against the Eagles gave Chicago a valuable win, but it did not automatically move him ahead of Bagent. After that game, head coach Ben Johnson emphasized that Bagent had earned his place as the team’s primary backup, according to USA Today’s reporting.
Bagent subsequently helped Chicago beat the Jets 23–12, completing 25 of 34 passes for 268 yards. The Bears generated 492 total yards and a franchise-record 34 first downs. Johnson praised how crisply Bagent operated the offense, although he wanted better execution on opportunities downfield. Source: Chicago Bears
That performance helps explain why Chicago is continuing with Bagent against Green Bay.
Why Did Case Keenum Start Against the Eagles?
Keenum’s opportunity came with both quarterbacks ahead of him affected by injuries.
Williams was recovering from a hamstring injury, while Bagent spent most of the preparation for the Philadelphia game in concussion protocol. Keenum stepped in and helped the Bears earn a 27–7 victory.
Once Bagent returned, Chicago went back to its preferred backup. The change followed Bagent’s availability and the staff’s evaluation of the position. Source: USA Today
Didn’t Keenum Also Start Against the Jets?
Technically, yes. Keenum took the opening snap against New York and handed the ball to D’Andre Swift. Bagent lined up at receiver on that play before taking over at quarterback.
That opening formation can make the starting records confusing: Keenum received the opening snap, but Bagent led the offense for the game. Source: Yahoo Sports
What Is Caleb Williams’ Status?
Williams injured his hamstring against Minnesota in Week 2. He returned to limited practice on Friday before the Packers matchup, but Chicago’s Saturday preview still listed Bagent as the planned starter.
For Bears fans wondering why Keenum isn’t getting another full game, the explanation is straightforward: Chicago continues to favor Bagent as Williams’ replacement, and his performance against the Jets gave the coaching staff reason to keep him in that role. Source: Chicago Bears