Tyson Bagent’s Rising Stock: From Shepherd to Bears Backup and Beyond
In the ever-evolving landscape of NFL quarterback competitions, Tyson Bagent has emerged as a compelling storyline for the Chicago Bears. During the preseason, Bagent showcased his potential with a notable performance, including a touchdown strike to Maurice Alexander on a fourth-down play with under five minutes left in the second quarter. His night was nearly flawless, with his only incompletion and a lost fumble on a snap late in the first quarter being the sole blemishes. This display of poise and accuracy has fueled speculation about his role, especially as the Bears navigate their quarterback depth chart.
However, the competition for the backup spot is far from settled. Veteran Case Keenum has also been effective across three exhibition games, bringing a significant experience edge to the table. The decision remains uncertain, and even head coach Ben Johnson has shown a playful reluctance to discuss the possibility of trading Bagent. When asked about it at the NFL Scouting Combine, Johnson pretended to cough, offering an emphatic and guttural response that dodged the question. This lighthearted deflection underscores the value the Bears see in Bagent, yet the final call on the backup role is still up in the air.
Bagent’s journey to this point is nothing short of remarkable. His father, Travis Bagent, endured a challenging upbringing, living without running water from kindergarten through ninth grade. Despite becoming one of the most successful quarterbacks in West Virginia high school football history, Tyson did not receive the major college recruiting attention he expected. Major programs overlooked him, leading him to Shepherd University, a Division II school. There, he lacked the resources of a major FBS program, but he still managed to develop into a standout player, setting records and catching the eye of NFL scouts.
Now, as the Bears look to address the shortcomings of their starting quarterback, Justin Williams, in the final eight weeks of the season, Bagent’s role could become even more significant. His resilience and determination, honed through a path less traveled, make him a valuable asset. Whether he remains as a backup or is traded to a team in need, Bagent’s story is a testament to perseverance, and his future in the NFL looks bright.
Shimanta Das 
