### Chicago Bears Sign Veteran QB Case Keenum to Mentor Caleb Williams The Chicago Bears have officially signed veteran quarterback Case Keenum to a one-year contract worth up to $3 million. This move is aimed at bolstering the team's quarterback depth and providing mentorship to second-year quarterback Caleb Williams, who is expected to take on a more significant role in the upcoming season. Keenum, 37, brings a wealth of experience, having played for multiple teams over his 11-year NFL career, including a recent stint with the Houston Texans. His addition is seen as a strategic decision to enhance the development of Williams, who is still finding his footing in the league after a challenging rookie season. ### Breakdown of the Signing and Its Implications 1. **Contract Details**: - Keenum signed a one-year deal valued at up to $3 million [https://www.reuters.com/sports/report-bears-sign-veteran-qb-case-keenum-2025-04-04]. - This contract reflects the Bears' commitment to providing a solid backup option for Williams. 2. **Role as a Mentor**: - Keenum is expected to serve as a mentor to Caleb Williams, helping him navigate the complexities of being a starting quarterback in the NFL [https://www.si.com/nfl/bears/news/caleb-williams-gets-mentor-grading-chicago-bears-case-keenum-signing]. - His experience includes mentoring younger quarterbacks, as he did with C.J. Stroud during his time in Houston [https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/bears-sign-quarterback-case-keenum-to-help-mentor-caleb-williams-per-report]. 3. **Quarterback Depth**: - The Bears' quarterback room now includes Keenum, Williams, and younger players Tyson Bagent and Austin Reed, who will compete for backup roles [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/bears_signing_case_keenum_could_aid_growth_of_caleb_williams/s1_13132_42001729]. - Keenum's extensive experience (66 career starts) positions him as a more reliable option compared to the less experienced Bagent and Reed [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/bears_signing_case_keenum_to_one_year_deal/s1_17039_42001021]. 4. **Keenum's Career Background**: - Over his career, Keenum has played for eight different teams and has accumulated 15,175 passing yards and 79 touchdowns [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/report_bears_sign_veteran_qb_case_keenum/s1_17049_42001201]. - His most notable season was in 2017 with the Minnesota Vikings, where he led the team to the NFC Championship Game [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/bears_sign_notable_veteran_qb_to_mentor_caleb_williams/s1_127_42001291]. ### Summary of Findings In summary, the Chicago Bears' signing of Case Keenum is a strategic move aimed at enhancing the development of Caleb Williams while providing experienced depth at the quarterback position. 1. **Contract**: Keenum signed a one-year, $3 million deal. 2. **Mentorship**: He is expected to mentor Williams, drawing from his extensive experience. 3. **Depth Chart**: The Bears now have a mix of experience and youth in their quarterback room. 4. **Career Highlights**: Keenum's background includes significant achievements and a wealth of knowledge that can benefit the Bears' young quarterback. This signing reflects the Bears' proactive approach to ensuring that their young talent has the support needed to succeed in the competitive landscape of the NFL [https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/bears-sign-veteran-qb-to-1-year-deal-to-help-backup-caleb-williams-report/3713634/?os=shmmfp.refapp].