A new coaching staff always leads to different decisions regarding the construction of a roster. Ben Johnson is getting his first taste of that as the Chicago Bears whittle down theirs to 53 in preparation for the season. Many guys have been released already. One area fans have remained curious about is quarterback. Caleb Williams is the starter. After signing his extension, Tyson Bagent is the backup. It was unclear whether the Bears planned to carry two or three quarterbacks on the main roster.
Johnson provided that answer on Tuesday. He confirmed the team will carry three, ensuring veteran Case Keenum stays with the team for the upcoming season. This is a departure from standard procedure for the Bears. Typically, they’ve carried two quarterbacks on the main roster while stashing a third on the practice squad. Johnson believes Keenum has too much value to do that. The veteran is an excellent locker room presence and sounding board for Williams. Having him on the sideline will be a huge benefit.
Ben Johnson doesn’t seem concerned about thinning other areas.
The primary reason teams usually carry just two quarterbacks is so that they can use that extra roster spot elsewhere. They can retain an extra offensive lineman, pass rusher, or defensive back. Considering the attrition at those positions, it makes sense. Still, Ben Johnson understands that strength at quarterback is more important than anything. Having two quality backups behind Williams, one of which went to an NFC championship game, can’t be understated. Now, even if injuries slam Chicago, they have a much better chance of surviving them to remain competitive. Most teams never get a chance like this. Letting it slip away only to retain an extra blocker, rusher, or special teams player makes little sense.
