Case Keenum Shock Starter? Texans’ Veteran QB Move Rocks NFL Fans

Lake Forest, Ill. — Veteran quarterback Case Keenum officially cleared the final medical hurdle separating him from the practice field on Sunday when he passed his physical and was removed from the Chicago Bears’ non-football injury list. The 37-year-old immediately jumped into a spirited training-camp competition with second-year signal-caller Tyson Bagent for the role of primary backup behind No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams. Why Keenum Matters to Chicago’s Quarterback Room Bears brass signed Keenum in March, betting that his 14 seasons, 78 appearances and memorable 2017 NFC title push with Minnesota would provide an on-field tutor for Williams while raising the floor of the depth chart. Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson has kept the rookie’s plate full, and Keenum added fuel to that narrative this week, telling reporters Johnson’s approach is “the most demanding install I’ve been around — and that’s a good thing”. The endorsement underscores Keenum’s dual purpose: mentor and insurance policy. What Sunday’s Clearance Means • Immediate Practice Reps: Chicago wasted no time slotting Keenum into seven-on-seven drills, a critical step with the first preseason game against Detroit 10 days away. • Real Battle With Bagent: CBS Chicago notes Bagent impressed in spring OTAs but now faces a “prove-it” August with Keenum on his heels. • Scheme Familiarity: Johnson’s West Coast foundation resembles systems Keenum ran under Gary Kubiak and Sean McVay, potentially accelerating his command of the playbook. Depth-Chart Scenarios to Watch 1. Keenum Wins QB2 Outright Consistency in joint practices versus the Colts and a clean preseason stat line (think 70% completions, zero turnovers) could lock up the job and allow Chicago to carry just two QBs on cut-down day. 2. Bagent Holds Serve The former undrafted star’s mobility has intrigued coaches. If Bagent continues flashing off-schedule creativity, the Bears may keep three quarterbacks, valuing Keenum’s experience enough to avoid waivers. 3. Trade Possibility Multiple league insiders speculate that a healthy Keenum could draw interest from contenders seeking a seasoned clipboard holder in September. The Bears would gain a late-round pick while still rolling with Bagent. Impact on Caleb Williams’ Development Keenum’s résumé—high-pressure playoff wins, a variety of offensive systems, and a career 62.3 percent completion rate—provides Williams a live example of pocket management and film-study habits. Coaches have already paired the two in installation sessions, and Williams praised Keenum’s “shortcut tips on reading safety rotations.” Bottom Line With his physical in the rearview mirror, Case Keenum instantly reshapes Chicago’s quarterback narrative. Whether he emerges as QB2, a trade chip, or simply a wise sounding board for Caleb Williams, the veteran’s healthy return gives the Bears coveted flexibility as they chase their first winning season since 2018.