The Chicago Bears could face a quarterback conundrum on Monday night against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Backup Bears quarterback Tyson Bagent is in concussion protocol, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported Tuesday, per sources. With Caleb Williams dealing with a hamstring injury that coach Ben Johnson said Monday likely puts him out this week, veteran Case Keenum could be in the starting saddle in prime time.
Bagent entered the game in the fourth quarter of Sunday's 9-3 loss to Minnesota after Williams exited with the hamstring injury. He completed 5 of 9 passes for 54 yards. On the final play of the game, Vikings' Dallas Turner slammed Bagent to the turf for a sack.
Playing on Monday gives the Bears an extra day to get Bagent through concussion protocol before having to pull the emergency handle in Keenum.
The 38-year-old is in his second season with the Bears, mostly acting as an extra coach in the QB room. Keenum hasn't thrown a pass or started a regular-season game since 2023 with the Houston Texans. In his 11-year career, he's started 66 contests -- only four since 2020 -- with a career 62.3 completion percentage, 15,175 yards with 79 TDs and 51 INTs. Best known for the Minneapolis Miracle in 2017, Keenum is a wild card at this stage. Can he perform like a savvy vet who understands defenses, knows when to take his shots, and can manage the offense? Or might he look like an elderly signal-caller meant more for his film prowess than on-field acumen?
If Bagent doesn't clear protocol by Monday night, we'll find out.
