The Chicago Bears have been without franchise quarterback Caleb Williams for nearly a month, but that's looking like it's about to change. The team has a critical game on Sunday against the Atlanta Falcons, and reports indicate that head coach Ben Johnson will tap Williams to start.
On Saturday, sources told NFL Network and ESPN that the Bears are "planning to start" Williams following the quarterback's absence from three consecutive games due to a torn hamstring.
The last game Williams appeared in was on Sept. 20 against the Minnesota Vikings, which is also where he sustained the injury. This week, though, Williams went through a full week of practice, an early indication that he could appear in Sunday's matchup.
Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams is expected to return against the Atlanta Falcons after missing three straight games
"Williams took starter reps at practice, according to sources, another indication that he's set to return, ESPN's Ian Rapoport, Adam Schefter and Mike Garafolo reported on Saturday. 'After the Wednesday walk-through, sources said he looked like himself during the Thursday and Friday practice with no issues.'"
Even without Williams, Chicago was able to win two of its past three games using two different quarterbacks. Case Keenum stepped in against the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 3 and got the win, and then backup quarterback Tyson Bagent returned and went 1-1.
So far this season, Williams has notched 407 passing yards and two passing touchdowns in two games. He also has one interception. Having Williams back will be a huge boost for this franchise, which is somehow at the bottom of the NFC North, the opposite spot from where the Bears landed at the end of last season.
