Bears coach says quarterback decision for Week 4 is set but starter not yet announced
Chicago head coach Ben Johnson indicated the team knows its quarterback direction for the upcoming game against the Jets, though he will not name a starter until closer to game day.
Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson said the team has already determined the "direction" it will take at quarterback for its Week 4 matchup against the New York Jets, but he declined to name a starter publicly. Johnson added that the decision could be finalized as late as game day, noting the Bears will know who will play on Sunday.
The Bears' third-string veteran, Case Keenum, threw for 247 yards and three touchdowns in a 27-7 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles, stepping in after Caleb Williams suffered a hamstring injury in Week 3. Backup Tyson Bagent, who cleared concussion protocol only a day before the Eagles game, was active but did not play.
Johnson praised Bagent, saying there is "a reason why Tyson ended training camp as our No. 2 quarterback," and said the coaching staff will evaluate whether to continue with Keenum or give Bagent his first start since 2023. Williams, who is dealing with a Grade 2 hamstring strain expected to sideline him for three to four weeks, is not expected to factor into the immediate decision, though the team has not placed him on injured reserve.
"Whoever we feel like gives us the best chance to win," Johnson said, emphasizing that the quarterback choice will be based on the player who offers the highest probability of success.