Chicago Bears face Cincinnati Bengals in preseason matchup

The Chicago Bears are set to face the Cincinnati Bengals in a preseason matchup at Paycor Stadium following a joint practice session between the two teams. While Bengals coach Zac Taylor announced he would sit most starters, Bears head coach Ben Johnson indicated that quarterback Caleb Williams is prepared to play to establish a night game routine.

Williams will lead an offense that has seen significant changes, including the addition of center Garrett Bradbury following the retirement of Drew Dalman. The preseason game also serves as a critical evaluation period for several roster battles. Key players such as running back Roschon Johnson and wide receiver Scotty Miller are facing pressure to secure their positions amidst a crowded depth chart. Additionally, several Bears draft picks, including Dillon Thienemanis and Malik Muhammad, are expected to see action as they compete for roles in the upcoming regular season.

Due to a hamstring injury to second-string quarterback Tyson Bagent, the Bears are expected to rely on Case Keenum and undrafted rookie Miller Moss for quarterback repetitions if Williams does not play extended series.