Bears players to watch vs. Bills Sunday night

Bears vs. Bills: Preseason Sunday — Key Players to Watch

1. Caleb Williams, Quarterback (Rookie Starter)

Spotlight Moment: After sitting out the preseason opener, Williams gets his first live action under center this Sunday night at Soldier Field. Head Coach Ben Johnson confirmed starters like Williams will see the field, though likely for limited series to balance experience with workload.

Why It Matters: As the No. 1 overall pick, all eyes are on him. Williams must prove he’s worth the hype and silence doubters about potential bust status. His Rodgers-style bootlegs and rollouts will replace the vanilla quarterbacking in Week 1, and the night game setting mirrors what the regular season opener might look like.

2. D’Andre Swift, Running Back

Pressure to Perform: Swift faces growing scrutiny, especially as rookie Kyle Monangai impressed in Week 1. A dominant showing here could reaffirm Swift’s place as a key offensive weapon.

3. Braxton Jones, Offensive Tackle

Battle for the Blindside: Jones has taken the lead in the left tackle competition. A strong outing versus a formidable Bills front could solidify his claim to the starting role.

4. Luther Burden III, Wide Receiver

Poised to Shine: A second-round pick who drew first-round hope, Burden has yet to fully showcase his burst and route-running after a hamstring setback and time behind others on the depth chart. This game is his chance to reintroduce himself to fans and coaches alike.

5. Nahshon Wright, Cornerback

Stepping Up: With injuries to key corners, Wright has seized extra reps in training camp. His size and ball skills make him a potential breakout candidate early in the season.

6. Theo Benedet, Offensive Lineman (Undrafted)

Rising Stock: Benedet earned first-team reps thanks to impressive camp showings, dispelling concerns around his arm length and positioning himself as a versatile asset along the line.

7. Rome Odunze, Wide Receiver

Ready for More: Returning from injury, Odunze turned heads during joint practices. He’s poised to take a bigger slice of the offensive pie with renewed confidence and chemistry.

8. Tremaine Edmunds, Linebacker

A Reunion with Emotion: Facing his former team, the Bills, Edmunds brings a personal edge. Expect heightened intensity and physicality from the veteran as he looks to make a statement.

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Game Context & Stakes

When: Sunday night, August 17, at 7 p.m. CT (8 p.m. EDT), Soldier Field

Broadcast: FOX (with streaming options via FOX Sports app, NFL+); game announcers include Joe Davis, Greg Olsen, and Pam Oliver

Setup Importance: With the roster cutdown looming on August 27, every snap matters. Coaches are looking for definitive performances to shape the final 53-man roster.

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Why This Preseason Game Feels Bigger

Although it’s technically Week 2 of the preseason, the Bears are rolling out full-strength starters, making it feel more like a regular-season tune-up. Rookie Caleb Williams’ debut and key position battles lend significance well beyond the scoreboard.

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Summary Table: Players to Watch & What to Look For

Player Position Storyline to Watch

Caleb Williams QB Performance under pressure, building trust & chemistry
D’Andre Swift RB Level of explosiveness and reinforcement of starting role
Braxton Jones OT Silent but impactful—solidifying left tackle duties
Luther Burden III WR Showcase first-round potential, depth chart movement
Rome Odunze WR Take advantage, assert offensive role
Nahshon Wright CB Utilize recent reps, seize opportunity in defense
Theo Benedet OL Versatile reliability, value as UDFA lineup depth
Tremaine Edmunds LB Emotional intensity, disruption vs former team