The Chicago Bears have entered a significant phase in their offseason, transitioning from rookie camp to Offseason Training Activities (OTAs). Though voluntary, nearly all players are expected to attend unless precluded by injury or urgent matters. This year’s team is highly competitive, with significant roster depth and a new coaching staff. Shane Waldron has replaced Luke Getsy as the offensive coordinator, bringing a new offensive system that players are eager to master.
On defense, head coach Matt Eberflus will continue to call plays despite having a defensive coordinator, as Allen Williams resigned early last season. Eberflus, who was the Indianapolis Colts’ defensive coordinator before taking the head coaching job in Chicago, took over play-calling duties last season.
Caleb Williams has been named the starting quarterback after General Manager Ryan Poles traded Justin Fields to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Williams, regarded as a generational talent, is expected to lead the Bears to success. The Bears have a strong supporting cast, including receivers DJ Moore, Keenan Allen, and Rome Odunze, tight ends Cole Kmet and Gerald Everett, and a robust running back unit.
However, the competition for the backup quarterback (QB2) position is intense. The Bears need a reliable backup plan in case Williams gets injured, a common issue in the NFL. Currently, Tyson Bagent and Brett Rypien are vying for the QB2 spot. Bagent, an undrafted rookie, outperformed PJ Walker last season, playing five games and completing 65.7% of his passes. Despite his accuracy, Bagent struggles with long throws, which became evident in a game against the New Orleans Saints where he threw three interceptions and lost a fumble.
Rypien, familiar with Waldron’s system from their time with the Los Angeles Rams, has struggled in his four-year career, completing just 58.3% of his passes and throwing more interceptions than touchdowns.
Given these uncertainties, the Bears might look for an external option for their backup quarterback. Veterans like Ryan Tannehill, currently a free agent, could be valuable. Tannehill, with his extensive experience, could provide stability and mentorship to Williams, similar to how Alex Smith mentored Patrick Mahomes in his rookie season.
The Bears’ management is determined not to let an injury derail their playoff aspirations. They may keep Bagent as a QB3, given the new rule allowing teams to carry three quarterbacks in games. However, finding a seasoned backup could be crucial to ensuring the team’s success should Williams face any setbacks.
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