Chicago rolled to a 38-0 win over Buffalo in a dominant preseason showing. Caleb Williams sparked the offense with a seven-play, 92-yard drive that ended in a 36-yard TD to Olamide Zaccheaus, signaling comfort in Ben Johnson’s system. Tyson Bagent followed with three straight scoring drives across two quarters, flashing accuracy (13-of-22, 196 yards, 1 TD) and leadership. Ian Wheeler carved out a prominent role with 80 rushing yards on 19 carries and two scores, while Colston Loveland, Luther Burden III and Zaccheaus supplied reliable targets. The defense stifled Buffalo, forcing sacks and takeaways behind Chicago’s aggressive front.

Ian Wheeler's training camp narrative is shaping into a Bears revival arc. After pausing medical school to pursue the NFL, the Chicago backfield hopeful is back on the field, flashing the speed and grit that drew early attention in Hard Knocks. The slow grind of camp matters, but his character has already become part of the team’s storyline.

In the latest preseason, Wheeler logged seven carries for 20 yards against the Dolphins, with a TD run wiped out by a formation penalty. The burst, vision and speed suggest he could provide a real change-of-pace element if he earns a regular-season look behind the Bears' depth. His fate will hinge on health, the line, and whether he can carve a role on special teams as well.

Wheeler's comeback story—ACL rehab, a return to practice, and a relentless approach—has Bears fans and fantasy enthusiasts eyeing a late-blooming contributor who could help Chicago win games if given the opportunity.

The Chicago Bears have successfully activated quarterback Case Keenum off the Non-Football Injury list just in time for training camp. Keenum had been placed on this list initially due to an injury sustained outside of team activities, but he is now cleared to participate in practice starting Wednesday.

This activation is significant as Keenum, who signed a one-year contract this offseason, is expected to serve as a mentor for the promising second-year quarterback Caleb Williams. However, he's also in a competitive battle with Tyson Bagent for the backup quarterback position, and his performance in the offseason has shown he may have an edge.

Other notable players still on the NFI list include cornerback Jaylon Johnson, wide receiver Jahdae Walker, and running back Ian Wheeler, raising questions about their availability for the initial practices.

The Chicago Bears are set to commence their 2025 training camp on July 23, with several players returning from significant injuries endured during the prior season. Key players like Jaquan Brisker and Andrew Billings, who were sidelined for most of 2024, will rejoin the team. Brisker’s history of concussions raises concerns as he enters a contract year where performance is critical for a potential extension. Meanwhile, Billings’ role as a run-stopping defensive tackle is anticipated to bolster a previously weak run defense.

Other notable returns include Braxton Jones, who will face competition for his starting position, and rookie tight end Colston Loveland, fresh off successful collegiate play despite an injury that cut his season short. Veteran Case Keenum will also compete for a backup role after a preseason injury last year. As the Bears aim to solidify their roster, the performance of returning players will be crucial for the upcoming season.