Cardinals continue search for QB depth, Bears’ Tyson Bagent on radar

According to Arizona Sports’ John Gambadoro, the Cardinals are eyeing quarterback Tyson Bagent, who has largely flown under the national radar in Chicago. Arizona is seeking stability at quarterback, as Kyler Murray’s future in the desert remains uncertain.

Bagent played at Shepherd University and was an undrafted free agent before signing with the Bears. During his time in college, he recorded 17,034 passing yards, 159 passing touchdowns and 1,400 completions, according to the school’s website.

The position has been a roller coaster of emotions to handle over the last season. Murray struggled to find consistency and was injured midway through the year last season. Jacoby Brissett stepped up in his place, but the Cardinals would obviously need more depth at the position moving forward if Murray leaves.

The NFL has seen a growing number of teams turn to backups and undrafted players as legitimate options. One example is Queen Creek native Brock Purdy, who surged with the San Francisco 49ers beginning in 2022. Purdy started as the third-string quarterback but became the starter after injuries gave him the opportunity.

While Bagent is not guaranteed to be the next Purdy, the Cardinals’ reported interest may signal that he has qualities Arizona believes it can develop for next season.

The league is no longer solely relying on who can fill the stat sheet the most, but instead is emphasizing strategy — bringing in lesser-known players who can become X-factors for their organization.