NFLSep 30
Case Keenum powers Bears past Eagles in long-awaited return as starter
Chicago’s third-string quarterback delivered three touchdowns without a turnover in a 27-7 victory, rewarding Ben Johnson’s confidence after a lengthy absence from the starting lineup.
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Keenum seizes his opportunity
Case Keenum waited 1,009 days between NFL starts, then gave Chicago a performance worth celebrating. The 38-year-old quarterback guided the Bears past the Philadelphia Eagles 27-7 on Monday at Soldier Field, earning a game ball as Chicago secured its second victory of the season. The Bears turned to Keenum with Caleb Williams sidelined by a Grade 2 hamstring strain and Tyson Bagent having cleared concussion protocol only on Sunday. Williams is expected to miss three to four weeks. Keenum completed 24 of 34 passes for 247 yards and two touchdowns, adding a rushing score while avoiding turnovers. His victory also tied Ryan Fitzpatrick’s NFL record for winning starts with seven different franchises.
Passing game answers Philadelphia’s pressure
Chicago established its rhythm immediately, covering 66 yards in 11 plays before Keenum hit Luther Burden III for an 8-yard touchdown. He later found Kalif Raymond for a 41-yard score late in the third quarter and reached the end zone on a 1-yard sneak. With Philadelphia concentrating on the running game, coach Ben Johnson continued leaning on his veteran passer. Keenum punished the Eagles’ blitzes, completing all 11 attempts against additional rushers for 145 yards and two touchdowns. That efficiency helped Chicago overcome a rushing attack that produced only 27 yards before halftime.
Preparation pays off
Johnson persuaded Keenum to leave retirement and join Chicago’s quarterback room in 2025. Ahead of this opportunity, Keenum was the only active-roster Bears quarterback to practice on all three days last week. His preparation included 14- to 16-hour workdays and a command of the final quarterback meeting that left little need for coaching reminders. By Monday night, that work translated into a decisive win and a memorable return to meaningful action.
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