Chicago's quarterback watch heads into Sunday unresolved on paper but leaning toward Tyson Bagent. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported Friday that Bagent took most first-team reps this week and is expected to start against the New York Jets at Soldier Field, even though head coach Ben Johnson has not made it official. The Bears (2-1) host the Jets (1-2) at 1 p.m. ET.

Case Keenum, 38, started Monday night only after Bagent spent most of the prior week in concussion protocol. Keenum completed 24 of 34 passes for two touchdowns and ran for another in a 27-7 upset of Philadelphia. Johnson said Friday both quarterbacks are prepared and that there is not necessarily a right or wrong answer, while also noting Bagent won the backup job in camp for a reason.

Caleb Williams is out a second straight week with a Grade 2 hamstring strain suffered against Minnesota. The Sun-Times reported the injury often sidelines players a month or more, which could favor giving Bagent the multi-week runway. Bagent, 26, signed a two-year extension and has not started since his 2023 rookie season under Matt Eberflus.

Backstory: Keenum's heroics bought Chicago a win; Bagent's practice reps and contract signal the staff's longer-term preference if Williams stays out. Johnson's official word remains the missing lock.

Where to watch: Jets at Bears, 1 p.m. ET Sunday; confirm the starter on Johnson's final pregame remarks.

What we know:
Rapoport and Chicago beat coverage say Bagent is likely. Williams is out. Johnson has not named the starter.

What we don't:
The official Game Day announcement, and whether Keenum would relieve early if Bagent struggles.

Until Johnson speaks, the honest line for readers and fantasy managers is the same: Bagent is the reported lean, Keenum is still rostered, and Williams is out. Treat any social claim that the starter is locked as unconfirmed.