The Chicago Bears are ready to try something different. Tyson Bagent is expected to start at quarterback for Sunday’s game against the New York Jets. This decision comes after Case Keenum led a huge win over the Eagles. Injury reasons will cause Caleb Williams to skip his next two games consecutively. The team has to find a way to win without their top pick. Bagent is the right call to keep the momentum going.
Bagent Gets the Green Light
Reports confirm that Bagent has taken the majority of first-team practice reps this week. Ian Rapoport of NFL Network noted that Bagent is highly expected to start. ProFootballTalk’s Mike Florio backed this up, stating, “Tyson Bagent (not Case Keenum) has gotten the first-team reps so far this week.” The coaching staff sees him as the best option right now. Head coach Ben Johnson has not officially named the starter yet. He told reporters, “We’ll find out on Sunday,” according to reports.com. But the signs point to the young quarterback taking the first snap.
Bagent has been in this spot before. He won two starts as a rookie in 2023. He also posted strong preseason numbers this year with a 119.3 passer rating. August 2025 saw the team add a two-year, $10 million extension to his contract. This shows they believe in his future. He cleared concussion protocol last Sunday after missing early practices. His selfless attitude has helped the locker room stay calm. He admires Keenum’s veteran presence and has no ego about the decision.
A Dangerous Matchup Awaits
The Bears offense ranks third in the NFL with 408.0 yards per game. They face a Jets defense that allows the second-fewest yards in the league. The Jets are missing key players like running back Breece Hall. Wide receiver Adonai Mitchell and tight end Mason Taylor are also missing from their roster. This gives Chicago an edge to attack the remaining targets. Garrett Wilson is the main threat for New York. He has 243 yards and two touchdowns in the first three games. Kenyon Sadiq is another big danger after a big week against Detroit.
The Bears need to protect their quarterback to win. Darnell Wright will likely face David Bailey on the edge. Wright must shut down Bailey to keep the pocket clean. The running game also leads the league with 184.3 yards per game. This balance keeps defenses honest. Ben Johnson feels confident in his options. “Honestly, I feel really good about the whole [quarterback] room,” Johnson said.
Keenum proved he can play well when called upon. He threw for 247 yards and three touchdowns against Philadelphia. He did not get sacked or turn the ball over. Johnson praised his performance after the game. “He just played really efficient football,” Johnson said, as quoted by NFL.com. Now the team turns to Bagent to do the same. If he can replicate that efficiency, the Bears should win. The game starts at 1 p.m. EDT at Soldier Field. The 2-1 Bears host the 1-2 Jets in a crucial Week 4 battle.
