Chicago Bears Sign Veteran Quarterback Case Keenum to One-Year Deal
In a move signaling their desire to add veteran leadership to the quarterback room, the Chicago Bears have signed seasoned signal-caller Case Keenum to a one-year contract reportedly worth $3 million. The 37-year-old journeyman, who boasts 15,175 career passing yards, brings over a decade of NFL experience and is expected to serve as a mentor to highly-touted rookie quarterback Caleb Williams.
Keenum, who entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent out of the University of Houston in 2012, has carved out a respectable career through perseverance, grit, and football intelligence. Over the course of 11 seasons, he has suited up for seven different teams: the Houston Texans, St. Louis/Los Angeles Rams, Minnesota Vikings, Denver Broncos, Washington Commanders, Cleveland Browns, and most recently, the Texans again in 2023.
Throughout his 80 career games (66 starts), Keenum has thrown for 79 touchdowns and 51 interceptions, earning a reputation as a capable and reliable backup who can step in and manage a game when called upon. His standout season came in 2017 with the Minnesota Vikings, where he led the team to a 13-3 record and a memorable playoff run that ended in the NFC Championship Game. That year, Keenum threw for 3,547 yards, 22 touchdowns, and just 7 interceptions, including orchestrating the now-famous “Minneapolis Miracle” pass to Stefon Diggs.
Though he hasn’t held a regular starting job since his stint with Washington in 2019, Keenum has remained a valuable asset to teams seeking veteran guidance and depth at the most important position in football. In 2023, he started two games for the Texans, throwing for 291 yards, one touchdown, and three interceptions. He spent the 2024 season on injured reserve but is now healthy and eager for a fresh opportunity in Chicago.
The Bears are entering a new era under head coach Matt Eberflus and general manager Ryan Poles. With the recent acquisition of Caleb Williams — the former USC star and projected future face of the franchise — the organization is clearly positioning Keenum as a mentor and stabilizing presence. Williams, though immensely talented, will face the steep learning curve that comes with transitioning to the NFL, and having a veteran like Keenum in the quarterback room is expected to help ease that process.
While Keenum is unlikely to compete for the starting job, his leadership, understanding of offensive systems, and professionalism make him an ideal backup and coach-on-the-field for a rebuilding team. His experience can also prove valuable on the sideline and in the film room, where younger players can benefit from his insights.
In signing Case Keenum, the Bears are sending a clear message: they are serious about building a culture of accountability and support as they look to transition into a competitive phase with a franchise quarterback at the helm. For Keenum, the deal offers one more chapter in a career defined by resilience — and an opportunity to leave a lasting impact on the next generation.
