Caleb Williams’ Bears debut flashed high-end upside with a quick-start offense and dual-threat flashes, but the night spiraled as the defense tired and Williams’ decision-making wavered. A late replay-challenge timeout miscue by Chicago’s staff left the Bears with a desperate finish, field-goal chance squandered by progression and time. Minnesota seized the moment, aided by a key late sequence from T.J. Hockenson, while Chicago tried to salvage a game that began with fireworks but ended in volatility.

Fantasy takeaway: Williams’ rushing floor provides genuine upside, but his long-term value rests on improving accuracy and clock-management under pressure. Hockenson’s late involvement for Minnesota keeps him a sturdy target in tight-game scripts, while Bears coaching and stamina will determine if Williams can sustain this splashy, roller-coaster blend of boom-or-bust weeks.

Chicago shuffled its practice squad for Week 1: Carl Jones Jr. was signed back to the practice squad after a brief 53-man stint, Powers Echols was released, and Kalinic, Manning, and Owens joined the unit, while Elkin and Garner were cut. Jones Jr. returns with special-teams familiarity and LB depth for Bears depth-chart planning.

These moves add veteran depth at TE/CB/S and LB, signaling a readiness to weather early-season injuries. Kalinic’s CFL background, Manning’s Oregon ties, and Owens’ 2023 Giants path bring varied experience, while Elkin and Garner exit to trim the roster. The Bears aim to keep flexible coverage and backup options on hand as Week 1 approaches.

Bears running back depth is a work in progress. Swift remains the focal point, with Monangai likely to share carries and Roschon Johnson handling short-yardage roles if he’s healthy. Poles hinted at two different back styles to keep Swift fresh, while injuries have left the room thin and reliant on signings or development from within.

With Monangai limited by a soft-tissue issue and Homer on IR, the Bears could pursue a back on the practice squad. Bieniemy’s coaching is helping Swift run with more balance and physicality. Chicago will lean on Swift in the Vikings game, but the backfield could still be a committee before reinforcements arrive.

Chicago Bears begin 53-man cuts ahead of Tuesday's deadline, trimming depth across RB, WR and OL as injuries at cornerback and running back shape decisions. Austin Reed and Ian Wheeler were waived, Tre Flowers released, and the club weighs bubble players at several spots as Poles pursues best 53 with practice-squad candidates in mind. A likely three-quarterback approach looms, while trades and special-teams value could decide the final cuts.