Chicago Bears Extend Backup Quarterback

The Chicago Bears effectively ended their mini-competition for the backup quarterback role Wednesday morning when they gave Tyson Bagent a two-year extension. The deal, first reported by CHGO and confirmed by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, is for two years and worth $10 million with $6 million in possible incentives. The extension keeps Bagent in Chicago through the 2027 season. Bagent will continue to be the backup to second-year Quarterback Caleb Williams.

Tyson Bagent Extended By Chicago Bears

The Chicago Bears shored up their backup quarterback situation Wednesday by extending third-year Quarterback Tyson Bagent. The team and Bagent’s camp agreed to a two-year, $10 million extension with $6 million in possible incentives. Chicago Bears leadership spoke on Bagent and the extension after the deal was publicized by CHGO and NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.

GM Ryan Poles said, We are fortunate to ensure that Tyson remains a member of the Chicago Bears. He is one of the hardest workers on our team and in addition to being a great competitor and teammate, he is a catalyst for positive influence throughout our entire organization.”

First-year Head Coach Ben Johnson praised Bagent as well, saying, “Tyson epitomizes what we are building at the Chicago Bears. We are constructing a team that is driven by belief and built by hard work, and there is no better example of that than Tyson Bagent.”

Bagent has been with the Chicago Bears since 2023, when he joined the team as an undrafted free agent out of Shepherd. Bagent was thrown into regular season action as a rookie, starting four games and shocking everyone by winning two of them. The majority of Bagent’s success has been in the preseason, where he has shown himself to be a capable signal caller. Over the last two preseasons, Bagent has had the fourth and third-best passer ratings, respectively, among all qualified quarterbacks.

Final Thoughts

Between his regular and preseason play, and his locker room presence, the Chicago Bears decided to tie down Bagent through 2027, effectively ending the discussion about the backup quarterback situation. Case Keenum had been under consideration throughout this preseason for the backup quarterback position. Moving forward, Bagent will be next in line behind Williams. For a team with playoff aspirations for the next couple of years, Bagent could play a crucial role for this franchise moving forward should Williams get hurt.