Full Breakdown
Bears Edge Titans 24-15 in Preseason Finale
8/30/2026, 11:11:52 AM
Game Summary
The Chicago Bears defeated the Tennessee Titans 24-15 in the preseason finale held at Nissan Stadium. The Bears opened with a 97-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Tyson Bagent to rookie wide receiver Zavion Thomas on the first offensive snap. Chicago converted four of five fourth-down attempts and finished with 208 passing yards, while Tennessee’s offense managed 143 yards and three field goals.
Background & Context
Both teams used the game to evaluate backups ahead of the NFL cut deadline. Chicago’s starter Caleb Williams watched from the sideline, allowing Bagent to start and showcase the two-year extension signed in August 2025. The Titans started third-string quarterback Will Levis, with Hendon Hooker taking over in the second half. Defensive regulars Jacob Martin, Cedric Gray and Marcus Harris were among the few starters the Titans kept on the field.
Key Players to Watch
- Malik Muhammad – fourth-round cornerback, rotating between outside and slot positions.
- Salvon Ahmed – versatile running back, second-leading rusher and third-leading receiver in preseason, also contributing on special teams.
- Sam Roush – third tight end, competing for a regular-season roster spot.
Data & Statistics
- Final score: Bears 24, Titans 15.
- Bagent: 16-of-17, 208 yards, 2 TDs; 97-yard TD on first play.
- Thomas: 5 receptions, 140 yards, 1 TD.
- Levis: 14-of-22, 143 yards, 0 TDs, 1 fumble (recovered by Titans).
- Fourth-down efficiency: Bears 4-of-5, Titans 0-of-2.
- Field goals: Titans kicker Slye perfect 5-of-5 (including three from 50 + yards); 11 preseason field goals total, matching a record since 2016.
Official Statements & Responses
Chicago head coach Ben Johnson praised Bagent’s opening drive, saying the offense felt “really rolling” after the long touchdown. He also noted the team’s inconsistent but upward trajectory in developing younger players. Titans coach Robert Saleh commented that the limited use of starters was intentional, emphasizing that the camp exceeded projected repetitions by over 60 reps, which he deemed “productive.”
Verbatim Quotes
- “I don’t know that I’ve thrown a touchdown of that many yards, and I believe that was Zavion Thomas’s very first play in the NFL,” — Tyson Bagent — Tyson Bagent, quarterback, Chicago Bears
- “Going up, little bit down, up,” — Ben Johnson, chicago coach — Ben Johnson, head coach, Chicago Bears
- “I am never going to not like making kicks,” — Slye — Slye, kicker, Tennessee Titans
What’s Next
The Bears open the regular season later this month at Carolina, while the Titans host the New York Jets on the same day. Both clubs will finalize their rosters following the preseason evaluations.
