The Chicago Bears are preparing for a Week 5 divisional matchup with the Green Bay Packers while quarterback Caleb Williams continues to recover from a right hamstring injury that has kept him out of the lineup.
Head coach Ben Johnson said Monday that Williams will not start Sunday, with Tyson Bagent set to lead the Bears offense. Chicago Tribune’s Sean Hammond reported the news and shared Johnson’s decision on X.
“Tyson Bagent will start for the Bears in Week 5 against the Green Bay Packers, coach Ben Johnson said on his weekly radio hit at ESPN-1000,” Hammond wrote.
The Athletic’s Kevin Fishbain also relayed Johnson’s comments from the same press conference and provided the coach’s direct quotes on Chicago’s plans at quarterback.
“Tyson will be the guy. We’ll go from there. We’re in good shape,” Johnson said, according to Fishbain.
Williams is on track to miss a third consecutive game while recovering from a Grade 2 right hamstring strain. He has not practiced in any fashion since sustaining the injury during Chicago’s Sept. 20 loss to the Minnesota Vikings.
Johnson did not definitively rule Williams out of the Green Bay matchup, but the starting decision settles who will open the game under center for Chicago. Bagent will get the assignment against the Packers as Williams’ recovery continues, with Week 6 a potential date for the franchise quarterback to make his return.
Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images
The injury has already cost Williams games against the Philadelphia Eagles and New York Jets, with Chicago winning both matchups after last losing against Minnesota.
Williams has completed 36 of 55 passes for 407 yards, two touchdowns and one interception through two games this season. The quarterback has also rushed 15 times for 107 yards and two scores on the ground.
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The Bears visit the Packers on Sunday in Week 5, while Williams’ next opportunity to return to the lineup comes in Week 6 against the Atlanta Falcons.
