The Chicago Bears head into Sunday’s game without a clear answer at backup quarterback. Head coach Ben Johnson confirmed on Monday that the team has not decided who will start if Caleb Williams cannot play due to a hamstring injury. This uncertainty comes right after a tough 31-7 loss to the Green Bay Packers where the offense struggled to move the ball.
Williams has missed three straight games but showed promise during a pregame workout before the Packers loss. He looked spry and worked hard, leading many to believe he could return this weekend. However, the coaching staff refuses to make a final call until they see how he progresses through practice. The decision will be crucial for a Bears team that needs stability to bounce back.
Coaches Assess Backup Options
Ben Johnson spoke with reporters about the situation and admitted the team is still figuring out their plan. He told ESPN’s Jeff Joniak on Monday, “We’re still working through that.” The coach also added that “No determination has been made in terms of what direction we’re going.” This lack of a clear choice follows a week where backups Tyson Bagent and Case Keenum combined for four turnovers against Green Bay.
After throwing his second interception, Bagent was benched and ended with a poor passer rating of 27.4. Keenum replaced him but also threw an interception in the fourth quarter. Johnson noted that the team wanted “a little spark” when they made the switch, but the results were not what they hoped for. Now, with Williams potentially returning, the staff must decide if they stick with the veterans or wait for their starter.
Williams Shows Signs of Recovery
Despite the team’s hesitation, there is optimism that Williams will be ready to help. Johnson told Joniak that his quarterback is “[He’s] going the right way” toward a return. Williams returned to practice last Friday as a limited participant and worked out extensively before the Packers game. He has missed three weeks with a Grade 2 hamstring strain but is itching to get back on the field.
Prior to the injury, Williams posted a league-high third Total QBR of 85.1. He also led all quarterbacks with 107 rushing yards, showing his dual-threat ability. The coach stated that Williams is “doing a great job progressing” and will play as soon as the team gives the green light. If he returns, the Bears offense should look much more dynamic than it did in the loss to Green Bay.
Falcons Face Their Own QB Drama
While the Bears worry about their backup plan, the Atlanta Falcons are dealing with a similar issue regarding their starter. Michael Penix Jr. left the game against the Baltimore Ravens with a rib injury and watched the rest of the overtime loss from the sideline. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that “Michael Penix’s rib injury is not considered serious,” which is good news for Atlanta fans.
According to Jonathan Jones of The Athletic, Falcons coaches are “optimistic” Penix will play in Week 6 versus the Bears. If Penix cannot play, Tua Tagovailoa will start. This season, the Falcons averaged 8.0 points per reports, but 34.3 points per game with him. Both teams are hoping their quarterbacks are healthy enough to lead them to a win on Sunday.
