The Chicago Bears have an important NFC showdown on Sunday against the Atlanta Falcons, and starting quarterback Caleb Williams appears to be back in the mix.
Head coach Ben Johnson couldn’t have asked for better timing with Williams’ return with the Bears currently at 3-2 during the 2026 NFL season. The NFC North has proven to be a juggernaut through five weeks, and Chicago’s QB1 is vital for their offense.
The former USC Trojans star has only appeared in two games in 2026 after suffering a scary Grade 2 hamstring injury against the Minnesota Vikings. Initial thoughts based on Williams’ reaction led to many overreactions.
However, Chicago’s been able to survive in the interim with a combination of Case Keenum and Tyler Bagent behind center. That said, the Bears are hopeful that they’ll have their biggest offensive weapon on the field in Week 6.
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Is Caleb Williams playing today?
UPDATE: Chicago’s official social media account teased fans with a Williams post at 11:37 a.m. ET. It appears the former No. 1 pick is “active” for the Bears on Sunday.
Let’s get active https://t.co/xjc9lF5WV4
— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) October 18, 2026
END OF UPDATE
ESPN’s Adam Schefter first detailed Saturday that there would be a good chance for the 24-year-old to play this weekend.
“He’s back: The Bears are planning to start Caleb Williams after he missed the past three games due to a torn hamstring but went through a full week of practice this week without any setbacks, per NFLN and ESPN,” Schefter said in an X post on Saturday.
Williams arrived at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in style looking like a player that will suit up on Sunday.
The Bears and Falcons will kick off at 1 p.m. ET on Fox with Kevin Burkhardt and Tom Brady calling the action.
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Caleb Williams start-or-sit advice
There are very few NFL QBs that are most highly-regarded than Williams in the fantasy football world. His absence has certainly affected many fantasy players during the current campaign.
Meanwhile, the Bears offense simply isn’t the same without him on the field. That goes for top receiving weapons like Rome Odunze, Colston Loveland and Luther Burden.
Williams is a must-start against Atlanta. Both teams possess high-powered offenses that can explode for points. The combination of the Bears star’s passing and rushing abilities make him a top candidate to score lots of points on the gridiron and in fantasy this week.
Verdict: Start
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