The discussion for the Chicago Bears over the next hours will be around the future of Caleb Williams and the quarterback's potential return. Understandably, the expectation will be Tyson Bagent stepping in and taking over as the starter if the Bears are without Williams for an extended time. However, one could argue the decision shouldn't be this simple when you look at the playmaking talent and understand that what the Bears need a point guard capable of letting its talent work.
Keenum has done this previously in his career starting with the Minnesota Vikings in 2017 and passing for 3,547 yards and 22 touchdowns. This included making an iconic throw that would win a playoff game for the Vikings. While this has been nearly a decade ago any questions about Keenum's ability to still sling the ball were answered in the preseason.
Chicago's veteran backup played against the Cleveland Browns in the preseason and completed 9/10 passes for 151 yards and a pair of passing touchdowns. No question, it was an incredibly impressive game that reminded fans the aging quarterback was still more than capable of delivering the ball to any spot on the field needed. This should leave at least some consideration for Keenum starting next week against Philadelphia.
The Eagles are a great defense capable of making even the best quarterbacks make mistakes. Bagent has a higher ceiling than Keenum, but there is also a far better chance mistakes are made and the Bears are put in a worse position because of his youth and limited experience.
Bears should consider starting backup quarterback Case Keenum in Week 3
This is all clearly a hypothetical working under the assumption that Williams is going to miss next week and perhaps extended time. How the quarterback exited the game and the fact there was a cart involved with no hint of a return speaks for itself. Still, the starter is young and this remains completely speculative until we have a clear answer from the Bears.
With this in mind, it isn't crazy to consider starting Keenum understanding there is far less risk. Having such an experienced signal caller in the huddle gives you a chance to find a point guard capable of keeping all of your stars involved and leaning on this talent to stay relevant as opposed to counting on the star that is Caleb Williams.
Keenum has last played in a game in 2023 with the Houston Texans in the regular season. Still, the genius of Ben Johnson and experience of Keenum could combine to steady Chicago's offense and keep the franchise in the conversation in what is now a concerning quarterback situation.
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