Chicago Bears insider completely nixes idea of quarterback trade

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Chicago Bears insider completely nixes idea of quarterback trade

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Dan Fappiano | Last updated Sep 30, 2026 5:58 PM ET

Case Keenum’s performance in Week 3 has completely changed the trajectory of the Chicago Bears. Being able to win without starting quarterback Caleb Williams is a sign the Bears are serious about making a deep playoff run.

But Keenum breaking out has opened a dialogue about Chicago’s quarterback room at large. Williams is undoubtedly the starter while Keenum proved he could more than hold his own. Then there’s Tyson Bagent, who opened the year as QB2 on the depth chart.

Having three capable quarterbacks has led some fans to believe a trade could be afoot. Williams will soon be back, and either Bagent or Keenum could start until then. In turn, Chicago would recoup some draft capital while dealing from a strength.

But the Bears value all three quarterbacks on their roster heavily. Trading away Keenum or Bagent is much easier said than done.

Chicago Bears not likely to trade quarterback

Sep 13, 2026; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Tyson Bagent (17) during pregame warmups before the game against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

Both Keenum and Bagent have proven they can handle head coach Ben Johnson’s offense. Furthermore, the presence of two capable quarterbacks lessened the blow of Williams’ injury. A trade may make sense in theory, but Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune doesn’t see a way one happens.

“Keenum is 38, and you know what they say about players his age? They’re year to year. We have no idea what his status will be in 2027. As Ben Johnson said, the Bears had Bagent second on their depth chart for a reason,” Biggs wrote. “I’m not throwing any cold water on a terrific outing by Keenum on Monday night, but the Bears have developed (and paid) Bagent as their No. 2 for a reason and they’re playing the long game here.”

“You’re also ignoring the fact the Bears really love the vibe they have in their quarterback room right now,” he continued. “I don’t see them doing anything in season to change that.”

If Keenum weren’t on the roster, practice squad QB Miller Moss might’ve been thrown into the fire if Bagent didn’t recover in time. Overall, the Bears prefer their depth and overall makeup of the quarterback room. Splitting that up, especially in a season where Williams is hurt, could do more harm than good.

Of course, the NFL is unpredictable. But for now, the Bears are focused on figuring out a Week 4 starter between Bagent or Keenum rather than trying to trade one away.

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

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