Monangai sustained the injury during the Bears’ 23-12 victory over the New York Jets in Week 4. He also dealt with a thumb issue after carrying the ball a career-high 30 times, but head coach Ben Johnson clarified that the toe injury was the bigger concern. Monangai was placed in a walking boot and is considered week-to-week, leaving his return date uncertain.

The timing is particularly frustrating for Chicago because Monangai was coming off his best performance of the season. He rushed for 146 yards and two touchdowns against the Jets, establishing himself as a key part of the Bears’ ground game. His absence means Chicago must adjust its backfield rotation as it prepares to face a Packers defense at Lambeau Field.

Who’s starting RB for Bears vs Packers?

With Kyle Monangai unavailable, D’Andre Swift is expected to lead the Bears’ backfield against Green Bay. Swift has also dealt with hip and knee issues during the week, but he returned to full participation on Friday and is set to take on a larger workload. His ability to produce consistently will be especially important with Chicago missing the rookie who dominated the carries in the previous game.

Swift enters the matchup with 311 rushing yards and three touchdowns this season, putting him close to Monangai’s production. However, his recent ball-security problems have drawn attention after he lost a fumble against the Jets and saw his role reduced. With Monangai sidelined, Swift has an opportunity to reestablish himself as Chicago’s primary running back and give the offense a dependable option on early downs.

The Bears have also elevated running back Zavier Scott from the practice squad to provide additional depth. Roschon Johnson is another option in the rotation, while Scott could contribute depending on how Chicago distributes the available carries. With Monangai ruled out and quarterback Caleb Williams also unavailable for the game, the Bears will need their remaining offensive playmakers to step up against Green Bay.

Key takeaways

• Kyle Monangai will miss the Week 5 game due to a toe injury.
• Head coach Ben Johnson confirmed Monangai is placed in a walking boot.
• D’Andre Swift is expected to lead the Bears’ backfield in Monangai’s absence.

Parsons suffered a torn ACL and a meniscus injury in December 2025, requiring surgery and an extensive recovery process. Green Bay placed him on the physically unable to perform list before the start of the 2026 season, meaning he had to miss at least the first four games. The Packers have taken a cautious approach with Micah, prioritizing his long-term recovery rather than rushing him back onto the field.

There have been encouraging signs in recent days, however. Parsons has been spotted running and performing exercises on a side field during Packers practices, offering a glimpse of his progress as he works toward a return. Despite those developments, he has not resumed full team practice, and his participation against Chicago remains off the table as Green Bay continues to manage his rehabilitation.

When will Micah Parsons return to play?

Micah Parsons’ return date remains uncertain, although the Packers previously identified their Week 6 matchup against the Dallas Cowboys on October 18 as a possible target.

The game would mark a meeting with his former team, making it a particularly anticipated moment if he is healthy enough to play. However, the recent practice-field activity does not necessarily mean he is close to being cleared for a game.

The defensive end has been seen doing increasingly strenuous work with the rehabilitation staff, including running with a wrap or brace on his left knee. Packers head coach Matt LaFleur has acknowledged progress in Parsons’ recovery, but the team has continued to stress that he is not ready to practice. Before he can return, Parsons must demonstrate that his knee can handle the demands of football-specific drills and full-speed action.

For now, a Week 6 appearance against Dallas remains far from guaranteed. The Packers will continue to evaluate Parsons’ progress, and the decision will depend on his recovery and readiness rather than the significance of the matchup. If he is not cleared in time for the Cowboys game, Green Bay will have to wait longer for its star pass rusher to return, with no definitive date currently established.

Key takeaways

• Micah Parsons isn’t playing today for Packers against Bears.
• It’s uncertain if Parsons will be ready to face the Dallas Cowboys in Week 6.
• Parsons suffered a serious knee injury in December of 2025.

Williams suffered the injury during Chicago’s Week 2 loss to the Minnesota Vikings and has been working his way back ever since. The quarterback has missed multiple games while recovering, leaving the Bears to adjust their offensive plans without their franchise signal-caller. Although his rehabilitation has shown signs of progress, he has not yet reached the point where he can return to game action.

The latest update offers some encouragement for Chicago, as Williams has resumed throwing while continuing to work toward running at full speed. However, the Bears are not ready to put him back on the field against Green Bay. With Bagent preparing to make another start, Chicago will look to remain competitive in a difficult road matchup while its starting quarterback continues his recovery.

When is Caleb Williams coming back?

NFL insider Tom Pelissero provided an encouraging update on Caleb Williams’ recovery, reporting that the quarterback has resumed throwing but is still working toward regaining his full running ability.

“Bears QB Caleb Williams has resumed throwing, but he’s still working his way back to running full speed as he inches closer to returning from his hamstring injury. Tyson Bagent starts Sunday at Green Bay.”

The update suggests Williams is making progress and could be nearing a return in the coming weeks. However, being able to throw does not necessarily mean he is ready to handle the demands of a full NFL game, particularly when his mobility remains an important part of his playing style. The Bears will need to see further improvement before determining when he can safely return to the lineup.

For now, Bagent will remain under center against Green Bay as Chicago waits for its starting quarterback to recover. Williams’ progress will be worth monitoring in the days ahead, but no definitive return date has been announced. His availability for the Bears’ next games will depend on how quickly he regains full speed and whether he can resume football activities without setbacks.

Key takeaways

• Caleb Williams will miss the Bears’ Week 5 game due to a hamstring injury.
• Backup quarterback Tyson Bagent will start for Chicago against the Green Bay Packers.
• Tom Pelissero reported Williams resumed throwing but has not regained full running speed.

Jacobs’ absence is not due to a physical injury. The NFL placed the running back on the Commissioner’s Exempt List while the league reviews a case involving allegations stemming from a dispute with his former girlfriend. Jacobs previously accepted a no-contest plea agreement on a misdemeanor battery charge, and the league is evaluating the matter under its Personal Conduct Policy.

The situation has left Green Bay without one of its most important offensive players at the start of the season. Jacobs was expected to anchor the Packers’ rushing attack, but his continued absence has forced the team to rely on other options in the backfield. With the Bears coming to town for a key NFC North contest, Green Bay must continue adjusting its offensive plans while awaiting further developments.

When is Josh Jacobs coming back?

There is no confirmed timetable for Jacobs’ return to the Packers. NFL insider Ian Rapoport previously indicated that an imminent return was not expected, as the league continued reviewing the case and determining whether disciplinary action would be warranted. Until the NFL reaches a decision and Jacobs is cleared to return, he will remain unavailable.

The Commissioner’s Exempt List is an administrative status that allows the NFL to keep a player away from team activities and games while certain investigations or proceedings are ongoing. It is not itself a suspension, and Jacobs’ eventual availability will depend on the league’s review and any resulting decision. As of the Week 5 matchup against Chicago, no definitive return date has been announced.

For the Packers, the uncertainty surrounding Jacobs creates another challenge as they look to maintain their offensive production. The team has promoted additional running back depth to its roster while Jacobs remains sidelined, giving its other backs an opportunity to handle more of the workload. Green Bay will have to continue without its starting running back until the NFL provides clarity on his status and a possible path back to the field.

Key takeaways

• Josh Jacobs will miss the Packers’ Week 5 game against the Chicago Bears.
• The NFL placed Josh Jacobs on the Commissioner’s Exempt List following a dispute.
• Ian Rapoport indicated an imminent return for Josh Jacobs is not expected.

Keenum delivered a surprising performance when called upon on the gridiron. However, Ben Johnson opted to go with Bagent in Week 4, and that same scenario will unfold again against the Packers, due to tactical decisions.

Recent reports from insider Mike Garafolo indicated that Williams “is pushing strong” to return to full strength next week, suggesting that the quarterback battle in the Windy City could soon come to an end. The good news for the coaching staff is that they have plenty of quality options available to fill the position.

Keenum and Bagent’s stats this season

With Caleb Williams missing time, both backups have had to step under center for Chicago, offering two very different takes on the spot-starter role. Veteran Case Keenum made the absolute most of his starting opportunity in Week 3, delivering a hyper-efficient, mistake-free performance where he completed 24 of 34 passes (70.6%) for 247 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 0 interceptions in a 27–7 win over Philadelphia.

On the other hand, Tyson Bagent has seen slightly more action overall across two games, racking up 322 passing yards on 30-of-43 passing (69.8% completion rate). While Bagent showed solid rhythm by throwing for 268 yards in a Week 4 victory against the Jets, he hasn’t thrown a touchdown pass yet and has 0 TDs to 1 interception.

Keenum brought that classic veteran poise and touchdown production in his single nod, while Bagent provided a reliable, high-completion safety valve when called upon—giving Chicago two solid options to keep the ship steady.

Key takeaways

• Chicago will start Tyler Bagent against Green Bay at Lambeau Field.
• Veteran Case Keenum completed 24 of 34 passes for 247 yards in Week 3.
• Tyson Bagent threw for 268 yards in a Week 4 victory against the Jets.

According to Jonathan Jones of The Athletic, this makes much sense. “Khalil Mack to Chicago is something multiple league sources told me makes the most sense if both teams continue on their respective trajectories,” Jones said.

Mack is on an expiring contract, and it would take the Bears approximately $5 million -$6 million in cap space to take him on. They have $9 million available, and they desperately need a pass rush. Meanwhile, the Chargers are deep in a crisis.

Why it makes sense for the Bears to bring Mack back?

Macks is a cheap option with high upside. Even if he is 35 years old, Mack is still a force to be reckoned with. In 2026 alone, he has three sacks already, alongside with five quarterback hits. Despite the Chargers being 0-4, Mack has been a bright spot.

Meanwhile, Chicago is ninth on sacks this season with 10. However, no player on the Bears has more sacks than Mack as of now. Mack played for Chicago for four seasons (2018-2021), where he racked up 36 sacks.

The Bears are going for it all

The Bears are in win now mode. Ben Johnson, Caleb Williams, and a plethora of top-tier skill players in rookie deals is the recipe for a Super Bowl, at least for the Bears. Hence, adding an experienced, still productive pass rusher like Mack might be the icing on the cake.

Key takeaways

• Jonathan Jones reported that returning Khalil Mack to Chicago makes the most sense.
• Acquiring Mack would cost Chicago approximately $5 million to $6 million in cap space.
• Khalil Mack recorded 36 sacks during his four-season tenure with the Bears.

Ditka became a football legend in Chicago, first as a dominant tight end and later as the head coach who led the Bears to their historic Super Bowl XX championship following the 1985 season. His impact extended beyond one franchise, as he also won a Super Bowl as a player with the Dallas Cowboys and coached the New Orleans Saints later in his career. His legacy made him one of the most recognizable figures in professional football.

His family confirmed the news in an emotional statement, remembering Ditka not only for his achievements in football but also for the role he played in their lives. While fans will remember his fiery personality, Hall of Fame career and championship success, his loved ones emphasized the personal side of a man who meant far more to them than his public reputation.

What was Mike Ditka’s cause of death?

As of the family’s announcement, Mike Ditka’s cause of death has not been publicly revealed. The family statement confirmed his passing at 86 but did not provide details about the circumstances or whether he had been dealing with a specific health issue before his death. Any further information about the cause remains unconfirmed.

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Mike Ditka. While the world knew Mike as a Hall of Fame football player, legendary coach, and leader of the Chicago Bears’ Super Bowl XX championship team, we knew him as the heart of our family. Mike will be missed beyond measure and remembered forever.”

Ditka’s football legacy was built across a remarkable career as both a player and a coach. Drafted by the Bears in 1961, he quickly established himself as one of the NFL’s most productive tight ends, earning Rookie of the Year honors after recording more than 1,000 receiving yards in his first season. He later played for the Philadelphia Eagles and Cowboys, winning Super Bowl VI with Dallas before transitioning into coaching.

His greatest coaching achievement came with the 1985 Chicago Bears, who defeated the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XX to secure the franchise’s first Super Bowl title. Ditka coached the Bears from 1982 to 1992 and later led the Saints from 1997 to 1999. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1988 as a player, he remains a defining figure in NFL history, particularly for generations of Bears fans who will forever associate him with one of the league’s most memorable championship teams.

Although Johnson praised the work done by Case Keenum in Week 3, the coach appears to have taken a different approach ahead of the Jets’ visit. The veteran’s numbers against the Philadelphia Eagles last week were apparently not enough to earn him the starting job.

That being said, all signs point to Tyson Bagent being the Bears’ starting QB in Week 4. The former Shepherd Rams player has a unique opportunity to take the reins of this historic franchise.

When could Williams return to the field?

Williams’ initial 3-to-4-week recovery timeline puts his most realistic return around Week 6 against the Atlanta Falcons on October 18. There is a slight outside chance he could try to return early for the massive Week 5 NFC North rivalry game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field on October 11, but the Bears’ medical staff will likely play it safe and keep him sidelined until the Atlanta matchup to avoid any long-term setbacks for their franchise quarterback.

Injuries hit Chicago hard

On top of missing Caleb Williams, Chicago’s roster is severely depleted in the trenches and throughout its defensive core. The offensive line takes a massive hit with left tackle Braxton Jones (knee) heading to injured reserve, leaving Bagent without his primary blindside protector.

Meanwhile, the defense is missing impact players at every tier: Kyler Gordon with a calf injury, leaves a major void in slot coverage, while the front seven loses critical rotational depth with defensive lineman Shemar Turner and Noah Sewell both sidelined.

Key takeaways

• Caleb Williams will miss the Bears’ Week 4 game due to a hamstring injury.
• Tyson Bagent is expected to step in as Chicago’s starting quarterback against New York.
• Braxton Jones is heading to injured reserve with a knee injury.

The decision comes just days after Case Keenum delivered one of the best performances of his recent NFL career. Keenum started Monday Night Football against the Philadelphia Eagles and helped Chicago secure a convincing 27-7 victory, throwing for 247 yards and accounting for three touchdowns.

Keenum got the opportunity because Bagent was still working his way back from concussion protocol. Now that Bagent is fully available and has taken the majority of first-team repetitions during the week, the Bears appear ready to restore him to the starting role despite Keenum’s impressive performance.

Who will be starting QB for Bears vs Jets?

Ian Rapoport reported that Tyson Bagent is expected to start against the Jets after receiving most of Chicago’s first-team reps during practice. The Bears had not publicly announced the decision, but all indications pointed toward the former undrafted quarterback returning to the lineup.

The move is surprising because Keenum gave the Bears exactly what they needed against Philadelphia. He completed 24 of 34 passes for 247 yards and two passing touchdowns while adding a rushing score, leading Chicago to a dominant win in prime time. However, the Bears’ original depth-chart hierarchy appears to remain intact.

Bagent was Chicago’s No. 2 quarterback behind Williams entering the season, and Ben Johnson has continued to show confidence in him. His concussion opened the door for Keenum against the Eagles, but Bagent’s return to full availability has now allowed the Bears to go back to their original plan.

The timing is particularly important because Williams remains sidelined. The Bears officially ruled out their starting quarterback for a second consecutive game as he continues recovering from the hamstring injury that forced him out against the Minnesota Vikings. That leaves Bagent with an opportunity to build on his previous experience as an NFL starter.

Keenum will now move back into the backup role despite his performance against Philadelphia. For Chicago, the decision reflects the coaching staff’s continued belief in Bagent and gives the 26-year-old another chance to prove he can keep the offense moving while Williams works his way back.

Key takeaways

• Tyson Bagent will start at quarterback against the New York Jets in Week 4.
• Case Keenum completed 24 of 34 passes for 247 yards against the Eagles, but won’t start vs Jets.
• Caleb Williams was ruled out for a second straight game with a hamstring injury.

“We’ll have a discussion as a coaching staff and we’ll see where we need to go from here,” Johnson said to the press once the game concluded. “But I said it last week and I’ll say it again: There was a reason Tyson ended training camp as our No. 2 quarterback.”

Still, the head coach could not have been more pleased with Keenum’s performance at Soldier Field. With very few people having him on their radar after sitting behind Caleb Williams and Tyler Bagent on the depth chart, No. 11 came out firing against the Philadelphia Eagles.

“It’s all about Case Keenum,” Johnson added. “What he was able to do here tonight, I thought he did an extraordinary job. When the running game’s not going, being able to lean into the passing game as a play caller . . . He played really efficient football and I couldn’t be more proud of him for that.”

Keenum shines on MNF

In his first start in three years, Keenum delivered an efficient performance to lead the Chicago Bears to a 27-7 victory over the Eagles. At 38, Keenum completed 24 of 34 passes for 247 yards, throwing two touchdowns and zero interceptions.

Keenum also added a 1-yard rushing touchdown—making him the oldest player in franchise history to score on the ground—while taking no sacks and orchestrating an offense that controlled the clock for nearly 37 minutes.

What’s next for the Bears?

Looking ahead, the Bears kick off a crucial three-game slate starting on October 4, when they host the New York Jets at Soldier Field. They will then hit the road for back-to-back away games, heading to Lambeau Field on October 11 for a fierce NFC North rivalry clash against the Green Bay Packers, before traveling down to Atlanta on October 18 to face the Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Key takeaways

• Case Keenum started on Monday Night Football despite remaining behind Tyson Bagent on depth chart.
• The veteran quarterback led Chicago to a 27-7 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles.
• Chicago hosts the New York Jets at Soldier Field on October 4.

The reason for the trade came down to franchise convenience. With his massive salary cap hit and the influx of talent on Chicago’s roster, trading Moore made the most sense from a business standpoint. The main driver allowing them to make the move was simple: Luther Burden III.

Last offseason, the Bears did not need another wide receiver with DJ Moore and Rome Odunze on the roster. But when they elected to draft the best player available in the second round, they lucked into a young, promising playmaker who thrived in his rookie season, giving them the ability to move on from Moore.

Factors that influenced the decision on Moore

Moore carried a high cap number with large future salary guarantees kicking in, and parting ways saved Chicago roughly $16.5 million in financial flexibility. In addition, the rapid development of younger weapons—such as rookie standout Luther Burden III and Rome Odunze—made it easier for general manager Ryan Poles to move on from Moore’s high price tag.

The Bears managed to secure a valuable 2026 second-round draft pick (No. 60 overall) from Buffalo in exchange for a fifth-round selection, maximizing the market value of a veteran receiver. Everything hinged on Ryan Poles’ confidence in Burden, who is expected to play a prominent role in his second season after showing his massive potential as a serious threat, as well as his versatility and playmaking ability.

Bears’ management of draft compensation and salary cap

The Bears did not actually select a player at No. 60 overall. Instead, general manager Ryan Poles traded down on Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft, sending the No. 60 pick to the Tennessee Titans.

This maneuver aimed to cover significant draft gaps on Day 3, as Chicago initially lacked fifth- and sixth-round selections. In exchange for trading back, they acquired pick No. 69 in the third round—used to select Stanford tight end Sam Roush—and pick No. 144 in the fifth round, providing crucial mid-round capital and late-draft flexibility.

Regarding the salary cap, while the roughly $16.5 million in savings from Moore’s contract placed the Bears in a safer position, the move primarily served to rebalance a top-heavy payroll. Heading into the regular season, the Bears were projected to be nearly $12 million over the league spending limit.

Combined with late-summer contract restructures for guard Joe Thuney, defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo, and linebacker T.J. Edwards, the cleared cap space achieved two strategic goals: pulling the team out of a compromised financial situation and ensuring rule compliance before Week 1, while leaving the team with between $4 million and $5 million in operating margin under the salary cap.

Key takeways

• A 2026 second-round pick was acquired from Buffalo for wide receiver DJ Moore.
• Roughly $16.5 million in financial flexibility was saved by parting ways.
• Pick No. 60 was traded to Tennessee for additional draft capital.