Bears rest Williams and most starters against Dolphins

Bears coach Ben Johnson rests Williams and most starters in Sunday exhibition against the Dolphins as part of a measured preseason plan.

Bears rest Caleb Williams and most starters against Dolphins

Caleb Williams and about 17 Bears starters will not play in Sunday's preseason game against the Miami Dolphins. Johnson said the plan centers on distributing reps with roughly nine starters on offense and nine on defense sitting out. The teams will hold a joint practice on Friday to provide live looks without a full in-game tilt.

Williams and the team's pass catchers will go through an extended workout before kickoff, and they will still have opportunities for practice the day before and after. Johnson noted that players not playing will still get substantial reps, and the plan could shift as the day unfolds. Tyson Bagent is set to start and play the first half.

The decision reflects a broader trend in preseason where teams balance development and workload. Resting Williams signals a focus on long-term growth and a cautious approach to a high-ceiling quarterback. If this plan succeeds, Chicago could enter August with clearer evaluations and healthier depth.

The challenge is keeping timing and rhythm when reps are scarce. The staff must ensure players stay engaged during nontraditional days and that the quarterback room stays cohesive as reps shift.

Highlights

The preseason is a chess game where choices matter as much as results