Image Source: Chicago Bears
Jets vs Bears action arrives at Soldier Field on Sunday with Chicago aiming to build on its impressive 27-7 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles. The Bears enter the matchup at 2-1 and are seeking back-to-back wins, while the New York Jets bring a 1-2 record into their third consecutive game against an NFC North opponent.
The biggest storyline surrounds Chicago’s quarterback position. Caleb Williams has officially been ruled out for a second straight game because of the hamstring injury he suffered against the Minnesota Vikings in Week 2. The Bears have not announced whether Tyson Bagent or Case Keenum will start.
Jets vs Bears Quarterback Decision Takes Center Stage
Chicago appears comfortable with either backup quarterback. Keenum started against Philadelphia after Bagent was unable to clear concussion protocol, and the veteran delivered an efficient performance. The 14-year NFL quarterback threw for 247 yards, accounted for three touchdowns and posted a 110.8 passer rating without being sacked or committing a turnover.
Bagent has also shown he can handle the moment. He won two starts as a rookie in 2023 and has produced strong preseason numbers since joining the Bears’ quarterback room. Head coach Ben Johnson said the team believes in every quarterback available to him.
“I don’t know that there’s a bad choice or a wrong choice,” Johnson said, emphasizing the confidence Chicago has in both Bagent and Keenum. The final decision will determine how the Bears approach an important matchup against one of the NFL’s most productive defenses.
Powerful Bears Ground Game Faces a Stubborn Jets Defense
Even without Williams, Chicago has a major advantage on the ground. The Bears lead the NFL with an average of 184.3 rushing yards per game. D’Andre Swift ranks seventh in the league with 253 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 54 carries, while rookie Kyle Monangai has added 178 yards and one touchdown on 30 attempts.
Swift and Monangai were the only teammates in the NFL to each rush for at least 750 yards last season. Through three games this year, they are the league’s only running back duo with at least 150 rushing yards apiece.
Chicago’s passing game also has a reliable contributor in Kalif Raymond. The receiver has 19 catches for 214 yards and one touchdown, including eight third-down receptions. Those third-down catches are tied for the second-most in the NFL.
The Jets defense has allowed the second-fewest total yards in the league, giving up only 258.3 per game. New York has also surrendered just 171 passing yards per game. Linebacker Demario Davis leads the unit with 23 tackles, while David Bailey and Kingsley Enagbare have recorded 2.0 sacks each.
Critical Battle: Darnell Wright vs. David Bailey
One of the game’s most important matchups will feature Chicago right tackle Darnell Wright against Bailey, the Jets’ highly regarded rookie defensive end. Bailey, the No. 2 overall pick, has already recorded 12 tackles, 2.0 sacks and three tackles for loss.
Johnson praised Bailey’s explosive first step and said the Jets’ edge rushers are the quickest group the Bears have faced this season. Wright has played at an elite level so far, but he will need to contain Bailey in obvious passing situations.
Can Chicago’s Defense Slow Geno Smith?
The Bears defense has dramatically improved since allowing 37 points and 478 yards in the season opener. Chicago has surrendered just nine points to its last two opponents and has allowed only one touchdown across eight quarters. It is the first time the Bears have held opponents below 10 points in back-to-back games since 2012.
Against Philadelphia, Chicago forced three turnovers, limited Jalen Hurts to a 64.2 passer rating and held the Eagles to a 22.2 percent third-down conversion rate. The Bears have six takeaways through three games, tied for the third-most in the NFL.
New York, however, has committed only one turnover and has not thrown an interception this season. Geno Smith leads the league with a 75.5 percent completion rate and has passed for 783 yards, four touchdowns and a 110.0 passer rating.
Garrett Wilson remains Smith’s top target, with 21 receptions for 243 yards and two touchdowns. Rookie tight end Kenyon Sadiq is another explosive weapon after catching 12 passes for 143 yards and a score, including seven receptions for 105 yards against Detroit.
Explosive Rookie Matchup to Watch
Chicago linebacker Devin Bush will be tested by Sadiq’s speed and athleticism. The rookie tight end has been described as a matchup nightmare because he runs like a receiver and can create plays after the catch.
Safety Dillon Thieneman, Chicago’s first-round rookie, will also be central to the defensive plan. He leads the Bears with 23 tackles and recorded his first career interception in the win over Philadelphia.
Jets vs Bears Injury and Roster News
The Bears placed offensive lineman Braxton Jones on injured reserve before the game. Chicago also elevated defensive lineman Marcus Davenport and defensive back Nick McCloud from the practice squad for Sunday’s contest.
With Williams unavailable, the Bears will rely on their rushing attack, disciplined defense and whichever backup quarterback earns the starting assignment. The Jets will counter with Smith’s accuracy, Wilson’s playmaking and a defense capable of creating constant pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Jets vs Bears game?
The Jets and Bears will meet Sunday at Soldier Field during Week 4 of the 2026 NFL season.
Is Caleb Williams playing against the Jets?
No. Williams has been ruled out because of a hamstring injury and will miss his second consecutive game.
Who will start at quarterback for Chicago?
The Bears have not announced whether Tyson Bagent or Case Keenum will start.
What is the Bears’ biggest advantage?
Chicago’s rushing attack leads the NFL, averaging 184.3 yards per game, while its defense has forced six takeaways.
Who is the key Jets offensive player?
Quarterback Geno Smith leads the NFL in completion percentage, while receiver Garrett Wilson and tight end Kenyon Sadiq provide major threats.
