The Arizona Cardinals are eyeing Chicago Bears backup quarterback Tyson Bagent as a potential replacement for their starting QB in 2026. With the quarterback market looking slim both in free agency and the draft, teams are exploring young backups with potential, and Bagent fits the bill. But Arizona isn’t alone in this interest.
At the scouting combine in Indianapolis, Bears GM Ryan Poles revealed that multiple teams have inquired about Bagent. The situation is complex: head coach Ben Johnson is a big fan of Bagent, and trading him would mean finding a new backup. However, acquiring draft capital for an undrafted player could be a strategic win for the Bears, especially with Caleb Williams firmly established as the starter.
The decision to trade Bagent hinges on the offers. If teams propose late-round picks, the Bears are unlikely to bite.
But offers in the 2nd to 4th round range could spark serious discussions. Historically, trades for backup QBs who became starters have involved at least one 2nd round pick in six out of seven cases since 2000.
Poles holds significant leverage in this scenario. The veteran QB market is sparse, with options like Aaron Rodgers, Daniel Jones (injured), Joe Flacco, and Malik Willis.
Arizona is expected to trade Kyler Murray, adding to the scarcity. In the draft, only Francisco Mendoza is projected as a first-round lock.
Bagent, with his NFL experience and solid preseason performances, presents an intriguing gamble.
Coach Johnson’s influence is crucial. He was instrumental in extending Bagent’s contract and values him highly.
The Bears won’t part with Bagent for a mere modest pick; it will require a substantial offer. The next few weeks will reveal how teams value Bagent, with any trade likely happening before the new league year starts on March 11th, or possibly after the draft if teams miss out on their targets.
For now, Poles is in no hurry. Bagent is under contract for two more seasons at a reasonable price.
The Bears are in a position of strength, not needing to offload him unless a serious offer comes through. Other teams will need to prove their interest with meaningful trade proposals.