The Chicago Bears are dealing with uncertainty as their quarterback Caleb Williams suffered an injury and required assistance off the field. Williams was supported by two trainers as he limped away. Once on the sideline, he was taken to the team’s medical tent before being transported to the locker room for further evaluation.
During an NFL game against the Minnesota Vikings on September 20, 2026, in Chicago, Caleb Williams tried to escape a tackle from Vikings linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel when he grabbed his right hamstring in pain. This incident led to his immediate need for medical attention.
The Bears later confirmed that Williams sustained a hamstring injury, which prevented him from returning to the match. Before departing the field, Williams gestured to the home crowd at Soldier Field with a thumbs-up.
The full impact of this injury on the team’s season remains unknown until an MRI can determine its severity. Head coach Ben Johnson stated, “We’ll know tomorrow.”
If the hamstring is torn, recovery may take between 3 and 6 months. A milder injury might only sideline him for 1 to 3 weeks.
Following Williams’ departure, backup quarterback Tyson Bagent assumed his position. The Bears ultimately lost to the Vikings, leaving the team’s once-promising season in an uncertain position.
Williams, now in his third NFL season, achieved significant milestones in 2025 under first-year head coach Ben Johnson. He led the Bears to an 11-6 record, securing the NFC North title and a playoff spot for the first time since 2020. Williams also set a franchise record with 3,942 passing yards and accounted for 31 total touchdowns.
In the 2026 season opener, Williams continued his strong performance, completing 21 of 29 passes for 269 yards, scoring two touchdowns, and rushing for 65 yards with two additional scores in a 59-37 victory over Carolina.
Johnson expressed mixed feelings about the situation, “I’m relieved it’s not a knee issue. That was my first concern. But a hamstring injury can still be significant. We’ll know more about the severity tomorrow.”
Armando Salguero is OutKick’s Senior NFL Writer.