Bears likely to start Caleb Williams against Falcons after hamstring recovery

The Chicago Bears are set to start rookie quarterback Caleb Williams in their Week 6 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons, according to multiple reports. Williams missed the previous three games after sustaining a torn hamstring but returned to practice this week and participated in full-starter repetitions.

Williams, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 draft, is listed as questionable for the game. In his two appearances before the injury, he completed 65.6% of his passes for 407 yards, two touchdowns and one interception.

During his absence, the Bears relied on Tyson Bagent and Case Keenum, combining for two wins and a loss. Head coach Ben Johnson recently benched Bagent for Keenum after a modest performance.

Williams addressed media speculation about his injury, saying, "It was a hamstring tear and a pretty serious one. We got a grade, but I wouldn't say it's deserved to be put out there after all the false ones."

The Bears, coming off a 31-7 defeat to the Green Bay Packers, aim to improve their offensive production as they sit 3-2 in a competitive division.