Lake Forest, Ill. – Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson faces a critical week as the team prepares for its upcoming matchup against the Atlanta Falcons. The quarterback room remains unsettled, and the defensive line is dealing with significant injuries and a suspension.
Quarterback situation remains fluid
Caleb Williams, the 24‑year‑old starter, was listed as a full participant on the injury report for Wednesday’s walkthrough, but Johnson declined to confirm him as the starter for the Atlanta game. Williams has not played since injuring his right hamstring in the fourth quarter of a 9‑3 loss to Minnesota on Sept. 20.
Tyson Bagent started the 31‑7 loss at Green Bay and threw two interceptions, while Case Keenum, who replaced Bagent early in the fourth quarter, was also intercepted and lost a fumble. Johnson emphasized that health is the “No. 1 priority for all three guys” and noted that none of the quarterbacks are “exactly 100%” at this point in the season.
When asked whether Williams is expected to start against the Falcons, Johnson described the situation as “still fluid” but expressed confidence in the game plan currently in place. The coach also said the team’s depth at the position is still being evaluated, with Bagent having posted modest numbers (12 of 21 passes for 87 yards) against the Packers.
Defensive line depth tested
The Bears’ defensive front is under pressure after Montez Sweat received a two‑game suspension for violating the NFL’s performance‑enhancing substances policy. Additionally, defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo left Sunday’s loss with a quadriceps injury and is expected to miss time.
Shemar Turner, who was added to the roster after Sweat’s suspension, remains a wildcard. Turner began the season on the physically unable to perform list while recovering from a torn ACL. The 23‑year‑old second‑round pick could see increased snaps if he is cleared.
Austin Booker, who leads the team with four sacks, is likely to see more playing time while Sweat and Odeyingbo are sidelined. Jamree Kromah and Jayden Loving also could contribute after being inactive in the Green Bay game.
Johnson praised the team’s preparation, stating, “We’ve got some guys on the active roster that haven’t even been active yet. Some defensive linemen that we feel really strongly about and what they did during training camp. This might be their opportunity as well.”
Additional injury concerns
Linebacker T.J. Edwards (hamstring) and defensive back Tyrique Stevenson (hip) may also be unavailable for the Atlanta game. Edwards is listed as a week‑to‑week concern, while Stevenson is considered day‑to‑day.
The Bears will also need to address the challenge of containing Falcons running back Bijan Robinson, whose “God‑given ability” to burst and separate makes him a formidable opponent. Defensive tackle Grady Jarrett, a former Georgia player now with the Falcons, highlighted the difficulty of slowing such a special player.
Looking ahead
With a quick turnaround from Sunday’s loss to Atlanta and then a home game against the New England Patriots on Thursday, Johnson stressed the importance of staying adaptable. “I feel good about the plan that we have in place at this point,” he said, underscoring the team’s resolve to overcome the injuries and uncertainty.
Original reporting: Capitol City Now (WTAX 1240 Springfield) — read the source article.
