Starting Quarterback Caleb Williams of the NFL's Bearswill miss the team's opening preseason game.
The Chicago Bears are set to face the Miami Dolphins in their preseason opener, but starting quarterback Caleb Williams will be sidelined, leaving Tyson Bagent and Case Keenum as the likely candidates to start in his absence.
Both Bagent and Keenum are listed as the Bears' backups behind Williams, with Bagent being the younger, developmental option and Keenum providing valuable veteran experience. The Bears have a total of three quarterbacks on their roster for the 2025 season.
Tyson Bagent, who was drafted as the No. 1 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, had a solid rookie season, finishing with a record of 5-12 while starting every game. He threw for 3,541 yards, 20 touchdowns, and six interceptions.
The Bears and Dolphins will be holding a joint practice on Friday, and it is expected that some of the starters who are not playing may see action at some point during the exhibition slate. However, final decisions about the starters who will play will be made on the day of the game.
Veteran Case Keenum and Austin Reed will also take snaps in the game, and it is possible that both could see significant playing time if Bagent struggles. Head coach Ben Johnson has stated that about nine starters from offense and nine from defense will not play, but the number may change depending on how the day goes.
It is worth noting that Tyson Bagent's participation in the preseason is yet to be determined, and his role in the game against the Dolphins is still uncertain. However, third-year quarterback Bagent is expected to start against Miami and play the first half.
The Bears' starters who are not playing will not participate in Sunday's preseason opener, including Caleb Williams and approximately 17 other starters. The exhibition slate provides an opportunity for the team's backups and younger players to gain valuable experience and showcase their skills.
With Caleb Williams out of the lineup, the spotlight will be on Tyson Bagent and Case Keenum to lead the Bears' offense against the Dolphins. The preseason opener is an important test for both quarterbacks, and their performance could have a significant impact on the team's plans for the regular season.
Tyson Bagent, drafted as the No. 1 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, is expected to start against Miami Dolphins, filling in for injured starting quarterback Caleb Williams. Veteran Case Keenum, with his valuable experience, and Tyson Bagent, the developmental option, are listed as the Bears' backups and would likely take the field in Williams' absence. The team's preseason opener against the Dolphins offers an opportunity for the backups and younger players, like Bagent, to demonstrate their skills and gain valuable experience. During the preseason exhibition, their performance could considerably influence the team's plans for the regular season.
