An important divisional game against the Minnesota Vikings in a Northeastern Illinois rainstorm wasn't the only thing the Chicago Bears lost in Week 2.
On a late scramble attempt in the fourth quarter, star third-year quarterback Caleb Williams strained his hamstring
. As it turned out after the fact, Williams' injury was considered non-major from a long-term perspective. However, it remains a Grade 2 injury, which should keep Williams out of the Bears' starting lineup for a while. That's why you won't see him playing on Monday night against the Philadelphia Eagles.But when might Williams make his return to play for the Bears? Well, with a Grade 2 hamstring strain, which usually needs roughly 3-4 weeks for a full recovery, it's safe to say the gifted
quarterback likely won't play in a home game against the New York Jets in Week 4, either. His status against the NFC North rival Green Bay Packers in Week 5 is probably up in the air, too. Although it should be noted that matchup feels like the earliest he could come back, with about three weeks of rest for his injured hamstring at that point in time. Plus, I'd guess Williams will be extra motivated to play against the Packers given the Bears' mentioned rivalry with them.
The most likely return date could be a Week 6 game against the Atlanta Falcons on the road, with Williams having a month of recovery by then. Of course, the Bears might elect to be more cautious with Williams' health, seeing as how he is their franchise cornerstone, but I wouldn't bet on his absence lingering very far into October.
Bears fans, fantasy managers of Williams, and general pro football lovers can take comfort in knowing that Williams' injury should only keep him out for a short early-season stretch, at most.
This article originally appeared on For The Win: When is Caleb Williams coming back to the Bears?
