The Chicago Bears could be forced to start their third-string quarterback against the Philadelphia Eagles on Monday Night Football. Tyson Bagent is dealing with a concussion and has entered the NFL’s concussion protocol, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. The development comes one day after Bears coach Ben Johnson described starting quarterback Caleb Williams as week-to-week
because of a hamstring injury.If Williams and Bagent are unavailable, 15-year veteran Case Keenum would be positioned to start against Philadelphia at Soldier Field. Chicago’s official depth chart lists Williams as the starter, followed by Bagent and Keenum. Williams injured his hamstring during the fourth quarter of the Bears’ 9-3 loss to the Minnesota Vikings. Bagent replaced
him and completed 5 of 9 passes for 54 yards. Bagent initially appeared to be the likely Week 3 starter, but he must now progress through the league’s five-step concussion protocol before being cleared. The Bears will not be able to establish a reliable timeline until Bagent begins advancing through those stages.
#Bears QB Tyson Bagent is dealing with a concussion and is in the NFL’s concussion protocol, sources say.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 22, 2026
With Caleb Williams likely out with a hamstring injury, Case Keenum could be the starter vs the #Eagles. pic.twitter.com/S9NPSgo3Q6
Keenum has appeared in 80 regular-season games and made 66 starts during a career that began in 2012. His experience would give Chicago a capable emergency option, but his presence would significantly change how Vic Fangio prepares Philadelphia’s defense.
Williams presents the greatest threat as an improviser and runner. Keenum would be more likely to operate through timing throws, play-action passes, and Chicago’s running game while avoiding obvious passing situations. The Eagles must prepare for all three quarterbacks until the Bears release their first injury report. However, Bagent entering the protocol makes it realistic that Keenum could be asked to direct Chicago’s offense in a nationally televised game.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Bears could turn to Case Keenum for Monday matchup with Eagles
