Tyson Bagent’s NFL career thus far has been anything but ordinary.
Coming from a Division II school and entering the league as an undrafted free agent, he wasn’t supposed to last, let alone signing a multi-million-dollar extension with one of the league’s most storied franchises.
But the Chicago Bears made it clear how much they value him, rewarding the young quarterback with a two-year, $10 million contract that could max out at $16 million with incentives. Mark Carman of CHGO Sports was first to report the news.
It’s a remarkable milestone for a player who, just a few short years ago, went undrafted. Now, under new head coach Ben Johnson, Bagent has carved out a crucial role as Chicago’s QB2 behind Caleb Williams, who had his own reaction to his teammate’s new extension.
Caleb Williams Reacts to Tyson Bagent’s New $10 Million Contract Extension
Shortly after the news of Bagent’s extension broke, Williams took to Instagram to share the news himself, writing “Big time!” in response to the extension.
Bagent first turned heads at Shepherd University in West Virginia, where he had one of the most prolific careers in college football history. He finished with 17,034 passing yards, 159 touchdowns and a Harlon Hill Trophy, cementing himself as one of the greatest players the Division II level has ever seen. Despite his stellar numbers, NFL scouts questioned the level of competition he faced, and he ultimately went undrafted in 2023. That didn’t deter him. The Bears brought him in, and Bagent ran with the opportunity.
Injuries at the position opened the door during his rookie year, and he went 2-2 in four starts, throwing for 859 yards, three touchdowns and six interceptions while completing 65.7% of his passes. He didn’t play much in 2024, but in the preseason this year, he showcased his fit in Johnson’s offense by throwing for 299 yards, three TDs and a pick in two games, cementing his role as the clear QB2 ahead of veteran Case Keenum.
Johnson has spoken very highly of Bagent, pointing out the seriousness the young QB brings every time he steps into the building. For a coach trying to instill accountability and toughness across the roster, having a backup quarterback who embodies those qualities is invaluable.
More on Bagent’s Future in Chicago
GettyCaleb Williams had a two-word reaction to Tyson Bagent’s contract extension.
For Bagent, his new extension is a validation of everything he’s fought for since leaving Shepherd. He’s proven that a small-school star can succeed in the NFL when preparation meets opportunity.
What makes Bagent’s story so compelling is how rare it is. Most undrafted QBs come and go within a couple of training camps, never seeing any meaningful snaps. Bagent not only broke through, but he’s earned a contract that gives him financial security and could signal the start of a long term role in the NFL.
His is the type of trajectory that reminds fans why football is so unpredictable: hard work, timing, and the right fit can turn a long shot into one of the league’s most respected role players.
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