Ben Johnson explains Chicago Bears quarterback change vs. Packers

Imagn Images

Ben Johnson explains Chicago Bears quarterback change vs. Packers

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Dan Fappiano | Last updated Oct 12, 2026 8:43 AM ET

With Caleb Williams still injured, the Chicago Bears have had to rely on backup quarterbacks Tyson Bagent and Case Keenum. But in Week 5, that plan didn’t work as successfully as Chicago hoped.

Bagent earned the start for the second-straight week. But his turnover issues reared their ugly head again, as the quarterback completed 11-of-21 passes for 87 yards and two interceptions.

Entering the fourth quarter, head coach decided to turn to Keenum. The quarterback did lose a fumble and throw an interception of his own, but he did outgain Bagent by completing 11-of-19 passes for 108 yards and his pick.

The Bears will have a crucial decision to make if Williams isn’t going to suit up in Week 5. But for now, Johnson and company are still trying to decipher what happened in Week 5.

Chicago Bears bench Tyson Bagent for Case Keenum

Aug 29, 2026; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Case Keenum (11) rolls out against the Tennessee Titans during the second half at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images

Chicago was already trailing 31-7 when Keenum came into the game. It’s not like he was expected to lead a miraculous comeback. But after Bagent’s second interception, Johnson decided he wanted to see a different look, via the head coach’s postgame press conference.

“We felt like we just wanted a little spark there,” Johnson said. “Tyson, could never feel like he got into a rhythm here today. We’ll look at why that was the case. The second interception happened and we just felt like, let’s give Case a chance out there and see if we get different results.”

Johnson said didn’t consider benching Bagent until the second interception. Those turnovers will play a role in Chicago’s decision making should they have to turn to their backups again.

But Johnson won’t let one game be the final determining factor. His preparation will remain as normal. Whoever gives the Bears the best chance to win – assuming full health – will start in Week 6.

“We’ll do the same thing we do every week,” Johnson said. “We’ll talk as a staff, recap this game and we’ll make a decision going into next week what’s best for us.”

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

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