The Bears are heading into Week 6 with their quarterback situation anything but settled, and Ben Johnson isn’t offering much clarity.
Chicago sits at 3-2 after a blowout loss in Week 5, tied for last place in the NFC North with the Green Bay Packers and Detroit Lions. The offense has shown one clear strength - the run game - but the passing attack remains a source of doubt. Caleb Williams could be back this week, but that alone does not close the door on a change under center.
According to Kevin Fishabin of The Athletic, Johnson said there has not yet been a decision on which quarterback will take the first snaps Wednesday at practice. And when asked whether Tyson Bagent remains the next man up if Williams is unavailable, Johnson didn’t lock in a clear answer.
"I think we have three guys that can win games in this league."
That response leaves plenty open. Bagent may still be the likeliest option for the Bears’ Week 6 matchup with the Atlanta Falcons, but Johnson’s reluctance to commit to him suggests Case Keenum is very much in the mix too. Bagent’s struggles against the Packers in Week 5 only add to the uncertainty.
It isn’t surprising that Johnson would avoid naming a starter while Williams’ status is still in question. What stands out is that even with Williams potentially sidelined, Johnson still stopped short of endorsing Bagent as the fallback option.
Week 6 is early for any game to feel like a must-win, but the Bears will be expected to handle the Falcons, especially if Atlanta is without Michael Penix Jr.
For now, Chicago’s quarterback picture is wide open. Williams could return.
Bagent could keep the job. Keenum could be the surprise move.
This is one situation worth watching closely all week.
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