Here’s the latest Chicago Bears news for Monday, August 11, 2025, following the team’s preseason opener.
Preseason Game Recap: Bears Tie Dolphins (24-24)
Starters Rested: Head coach Ben Johnson chose to rest most of his starters, including quarterback Caleb Williams, in the first preseason game against the Miami Dolphins. Instead, Williams and other starters held a private practice session at Soldier Field before the game to simulate game-like situations.
Backup Quarterbacks Compete: The battle for the backup QB spot was on full display.
Tyson Bagent started the game, completing 13 of 19 passes for 103 yards, including a 4-yard touchdown pass to Maurice Alexander. He also threw an interception and finished with a 77.3 passer rating.
Case Keenum came in for the second half and had an excellent performance, completing 8 of 10 passes for 80 yards and two touchdowns, including the go-ahead score to Jahdae Walker. He finished with a 139.6 passer rating. PFF graded Keenum higher than Bagent in the game.
Defense Shines, Especially Austin Booker: The Bears’ defense was a major highlight, recording a total of six sacks. Second-year defensive end Austin Booker was the star of the show, registering three sacks, including a strip-sack that led to a go-ahead touchdown. Coach Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Dennis Allen have both lauded Booker’s performance. Zacch Pickens and Dominique Robinson also recorded sacks.
Rookie wide receiver Luther Burden III made his preseason debut, catching two passes for 29 yards. One of his catches, a 16-yarder on third-and-15, was crucial in a drive that led to a touchdown.
Rookie tight end Colston Loveland also had a strong showing, with Case Keenum praising him for his athleticism and potential.
Kicker Cairo Santos’ Strong Leg: Cairo Santos showed off his offseason work, kicking a 57-yard field goal as time expired in the first half, which would have been a career long.
Left Tackle Competition: The battle between Braxton Jones and rookie Ozzy Trapilo is ongoing. Jones started the game but received a lower PFF grade than Trapilo. The competition is far from over, and it’s a key storyline to watch.
Injury Updates: While several players left the game with injuries, coach Ben Johnson lauded their toughness for returning. The severity of the injuries for players like Jonathan Ford and Tre Flowers is still being monitored.
Other Player Standouts: Declan Doyle, the offensive coordinator, mentioned that the competition for roster spots is a focus, highlighting several players who are standing out and fighting for a spot.
Stadium Update: President George H. McCaskey and CEO Kevin Warren discussed the new stadium project, signaling that the process is moving forward.
CB Competition: The battle for the second cornerback spot continues to be a storyline, with Terell Smith and Nahshon Wright competing for the role opposite Jaylon Johnson. Wright had a rough PFF grade in the game, but Smith had a strong joint practice with the Dolphins.
The Bears are now preparing for their next preseason matchup against the Buffalo Bills, with a joint practice scheduled for Friday, August 15th.
