Bears Turn to Tyson Bagent at Quarterback Against Jets

Bears Set to Name New Starter

The Chicago Bears are making a change at quarterback for their upcoming game against the New York Jets. Tyson Bagent is expected to get the start on Sunday.

While head coach Ben Johnson did not announce the starter publicly, Bagent took the majority of the first team reps in practice this week. Case Keenum will serve as his backup.

This move comes as starter Caleb Williams remains sidelined. Williams is recovering from a Grade 2 hamstring strain and will miss his second straight game. His recovery is expected to take three to four weeks.

Bagent's Path Back to the Field

Bagent has waited a long time for this opportunity. His last start came in 2023, when he helped the Bears secure a 16-13 win over the Carolina Panthers.

During his rookie season, Bagent started four games while former Bears quarterback Justin Fields was out with a thumb injury. The Bears went 2-2 during that stretch.

He recently overcame a concussion suffered late in a 9-3 loss to the Minnesota Vikings. Because he only cleared concussion protocol last Sunday and practiced once before the Philadelphia Eagles game, he did not start in Week 3. Now, he is fully ready to go.

Coaching Staff Split on Decision

Coach Johnson noted that Bagent was named the backup after training camp for a reason. However, the coaching staff did debate whether to stick with Keenum.

"There is such a thing as playing the hot hand," Johnson said. He added that the coaching staff was split on the decision, but felt both quarterbacks were well prepared to win.

What it means for the next game

New York Jets at Chicago Bears (NFL, Sun, 04 Oct): Chicago Bears win 62%, New York Jets win 38%; projected score Chicago Bears 24, New York Jets 19. Our safest pick: Bears to win.

Chicago Bears at Green Bay Packers (NFL, Sun, 11 Oct): Green Bay Packers win 52%, Chicago Bears win 48%; projected score Green Bay Packers 24, Chicago Bears 23. Our safest pick: Over 38.5 points.