Bears Preseason Buzz: Bagent Making a Case for QB2?
The Chicago Bears' preseason is in full swing, and while Caleb Williams is locked in as QB1, the battle for the backup spot is intensifying. Tyson Bagent, an undrafted free agent from Shepherd College, is turning heads and generating buzz with his performance.
In the Bears' recent preseason game against the Buffalo Bills, Bagent continued to impress. He previously had a strong showing against the Dolphins, going 13-of-19 for 103 yards with a touchdown and an interception. While opinions on his performance are divided among fans, with some calling it outstanding and others less enthusiastic, his story is undeniably compelling.
Pro Football and Sports Network (PFSN) recently ranked Bagent as the 30th-best backup quarterback in the NFL, ahead of former Bear Mitchell Trubisky. Their assessment acknowledged Bagent's grit and flashes of potential, highlighting him as a valuable option behind Caleb Williams.
Head Coach Ben Johnson praised Bagent's performance in the preseason opener, specifically mentioning his touchdown pass to Maurice Alexander. Johnson highlighted Bagent's ability to find the secondary option and give him a chance to make a play. "I thought Tyson did a great job," Johnson said, emphasizing the importance of that play in sparking the Bears' offense.
Bagent himself acknowledged the team's slow start but emphasized the positive momentum gained during his time on the field. His 9:33 touchdown drive was a significant highlight, showcasing his ability to lead the offense effectively.
While Case Keenum also had a solid performance, throwing two touchdown passes, Bagent's consistent play and the coaching staff's positive remarks suggest he may have the inside track for the QB2 role. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the final depth chart, but Bagent's emergence is undoubtedly one of the most exciting storylines of the Bears' preseason.
What's Next?
Keep an eye on the remaining preseason games to see how Bagent continues to develop and compete for the backup quarterback position. The Bears' coaching staff will be closely evaluating his decision-making, accuracy, and overall command of the offense as they finalize their roster for the regular season.