Bears Beat Titans 24-15: Tyson Bagent Leads Chicago to Preseason Finale Win

The Chicago Bears closed out their 2026 preseason on a high note, defeating the Tennessee Titans 24-15 on Saturday night at Nissan Stadium.

With the regular season just around the corner and roster cuts looming, the preseason finale provided one final opportunity for players fighting for jobs to make an impression.

Chicago took full advantage, producing an explosive opening play and controlling much of the game before securing the victory.

The 97-Yard Play That Set the Tone

The Bears needed just one offensive snap to announce themselves.

Quarterback Tyson Bagent connected with rookie wide receiver Zavion Thomas for a spectacular 97-yard touchdown, immediately putting Chicago in front and giving the rookie a memorable preseason debut.

Thomas, a third-round selection, continued to make an impact throughout the night, finishing with five catches for 140 yards. He also added a 39-yard punt return, strengthening his case as Chicago's roster decisions approach.

Bagent Makes His Case

With Caleb Williams watching from the sideline, Bagent received the bulk of the quarterback work and delivered one of his strongest preseason performances.

The backup completed 16 of 17 passes for 208 yards and two touchdowns, also finding Maurice Alexander for a second-quarter score.

Bagent's efficient display offered another reminder of why Chicago extended him previously. He consistently moved the offense and avoided the kind of mistakes that can derail a preseason evaluation.

Chicago's Ground Game Also Delivers

The Bears did not rely solely on their passing attack.

Roschon Johnson added a three-yard rushing touchdown, while Cairo Santos contributed a field goal as Chicago extended its advantage after halftime.

The performance gave Chicago a balanced offensive showing despite several established starters remaining on the sidelines.

A Final Audition Before Roster Cuts

The timing of the victory makes it particularly significant for players competing for roster spots.

NFL teams face the difficult task of reducing their rosters to 53 players, meaning the final preseason game can heavily influence decisions on the bottom of the squad. Several Chicago players used the opportunity to strengthen their cases, with Thomas among the biggest beneficiaries.

The Bears entered the finale with a preseason record of 1-1, having beaten Cleveland before losing to Cincinnati. The victory over Tennessee leaves them 2-1 heading into the regular season.

What Comes Next for the Bears?

The preseason is now officially over, and attention immediately turns toward roster cuts and the regular-season opener.

Chicago will begin the regular season September 13 against the Carolina Panthers, with the coaching staff now tasked with turning the lessons from three preseason games into final roster decisions.

For Bagent and Thomas, however, the final night of preseason provided something even more valuable: a strong final audition.

The Bears wanted momentum heading into the regular season. They got it — and several players may have helped themselves along the way.