TB #17

Tyson Bagent

Quarterback · Shepherd

A Division II record-setter out of Shepherd who parlayed an undrafted signing into a multi-year deal as Chicago's backup quarterback.

Tyson Bagent's story is one of the more unlikely in the league: an undrafted passer from tiny Shepherd University who rewrote the Division II record book before landing with the Bears. He has since become Chicago's steady No. 2 behind Caleb Williams, earning a contract extension that reflects the organization's trust in him.

★ NCAA Division II career records for completions and passing yards at Shepherd

★ NCAA career record for passing touchdowns (159)

★ Signed two-year, $10 million extension with Chicago in 2025

Path to the league

Bagent started five seasons at Shepherd, breaking the Division II career records for completions (1,400) and passing yards (17,034) and setting the NCAA record for career passing touchdowns with 159, including a 53-touchdown season in 2021. He went undrafted in 2023 and signed with the Chicago Bears, making the roster as a rookie.

Career highlights

Bagent has spent his career as the Bears' primary backup quarterback, seeing spot action behind the starter while developing in Chicago's system. His steady preseason and practice performances have kept him ahead of other camp competitors for the backup job year after year.

2025 season recap

The Bears signed Bagent to a two-year, $10 million extension before the 2025 season, cementing him as the top option behind starter Caleb Williams. He was CBS Sports' 10th-ranked backup quarterback in the league entering the year and shined in the preseason, completing 20 of 28 passes for 212 yards and three touchdowns against Kansas City, including a late game-winner.