With Caleb Williams unavailable, Case Keenum is getting the start in Week 3, while Tyson Bagent is also available. 

Updated on: Sep 29, 2026, 05:18:08 IST

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The Chicago Bears will face the Philadelphia Eagles on Monday Night Football without Caleb Williams, who remains inactive because of the hamstring injury that has kept him out over the past two games.

There is, however, some reason for optimism surrounding Williams' recovery.

How long is Caleb Williams out for?

Williams' recovery timeline makes a Week 4 appearance against the New York Jets difficult to envision, as Grade 2 hamstring injuries generally take about three to four weeks to heal.

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The following game against the Green Bay Packers in Week 5 could be a more realistic target, though his status for that matchup remains unclear with only around three weeks of recovery time available.

Positive sign for Williams

Chicago has also yet to place Williams on injured reserve, potentially indicating that the team does not expect him to miss an extended stretch. If his rehabilitation stays on course, the Bears could have him back within the next few games.

The Bears could still take a conservative approach with their franchise quarterback and avoid rushing him back before he is fully ready. Even so, his current situation does not necessarily point toward an absence extending deep into October.

How did Williams get injured?

The 24-year-old quarterback suffered the injury late in Chicago's matchup with the Minnesota Vikings. With the Bears trailing by only three points at 6-3 late in the fourth quarter, Williams scrambled toward the end zone before going down on the play.

The quarterback was subsequently taken from the field on a cart, ending his night and forcing Chicago to turn to its backup options.

Bears turn to backup quarterbacks

With Williams unavailable, Case Keenum is getting the start in Week 3, while Tyson Bagent is also available after successfully completing the concussion protocol.

Neither backup can replicate what Williams offers Chicago's offense, but they will be expected to keep the Bears competitive while their starting quarterback continues his recovery. How long either backup remains in the spotlight will ultimately depend on Williams' recovery. soon.

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