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- calendar_today September 26, 2026
The quarterback situation for the Chicago Bears remains in flux as Illinois prepares for the highly anticipated Monday night game. Tyson Bagent, recently sidelined due to a football injury, has officially cleared the NFL’s concussion protocol and returned to practice as the team weighs its options for the starting quarterback role.
Bagent Cleared After Concussion Protocol
On Friday, head coach Ben Johnson confirmed that Tyson Bagent was given medical clearance to resume team activities under the NFL’s stringent concussion protocol. Bagent, who sustained his concussion following a hit from Minnesota Vikings defender Andrew Van Ginkel, rejoined the squad for meetings on Friday after missing earlier sessions during the week. The team’s careful adherence to safety measures underscores the growing focus on player welfare across the league.
Ongoing Battle for Starting Quarterback
Despite Bagent’s return, the starting quarterback for the pivotal Monday night game against the Philadelphia Eagles has yet to be decided. Both Bagent and veteran Case Keenum have been actively involved in NFL practice sessions, with Keenum attending workouts on Wednesday and Friday. Ben Johnson remains measured in his comments, citing Bagent’s role as the number two quarterback and highlighting his significant value to the team offense. The coaching staff plans to assess both players further before finalizing their decision.
Case Keenum Steps Up Amid Uncertainty
Case Keenum’s consistent presence this week has positioned him as a strong contender to lead the Bears on Monday. With years of experience in high-pressure situations, Keenum saw increased reps during practice. While his performance offers a reliable option, Johnson emphasized that the team would not rush its decision, seeking to optimize the offense’s effectiveness against a tough Eagles defense.
Caleb Williams Remains Sidelined
Adding to the complexity, rookie Caleb Williams is unlikely to participate in the upcoming game. Williams, still recovering from a recent hamstring football injury, will not practice this Friday. This absence leaves the Bears with limited options at quarterback, further elevating the significance of Bagent’s recovery and Keenum’s readiness.
Illinois Prepares for Monday Night Showdown
The broader Illinois football community is closely following the quarterback developments. As the Chicago Bears finalize their lineup for the crucial Monday night game, anticipation is building among local fans. Team officials have indicated that an official game participation report will be released on Saturday afternoon, clarifying the statuses of Bagent, Keenum, and Williams.
Bagent’s Importance to the Team Offense
Coach Ben Johnson’s continued confidence in Tyson Bagent reflects his belief in Bagent’s ability to contribute to the Bears’ dynamic offense. With the playoff race intensifying, the quarterback’s resilience and readiness could be pivotal in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, the entire NFL and Illinois region will watch closely as the team navigates this challenging stretch—balancing player health, readiness, and the demands of the season.
Key Decisions Ahead for Bears
As the countdown to the Monday night game continues, questions remain about who will take the first snap for the Chicago Bears. With the team’s offense and playoff hopes on the line, decisions made in the coming days could have lasting implications for the rest of the season. Illinois fans will be paying close attention as Saturday’s game participation report offers more clarity on the quarterback situation.
