Tyson Bagent is getting the call for the Chicago Bears’ preseason opener against the Cleveland Browns, and that alone gives fans a reason to watch even without Caleb Williams under center.
Head coach Ben Johnson said some of the starters will sit for the game, including Williams, and Bagent will open at quarterback. For Bagent, the assignment is exactly the kind of chance he has been waiting for.
"The opportunity is everything," Bagent said via CHGO. "Every rep that I can get out there is an absolute dream come true to me. So I'm extremely excited and I'm looking forward to, you know, putting out good tape out there and, you know, doing whatever we need to do to be successful."
That mindset has helped turn Bagent into one of the Bears’ most popular success stories since he arrived as an undrafted free agent in 2023. He has spent most of his time in the background over the past two seasons, but when the Bears needed him in 2023 after Justin Fields went down, he handled the moment well.
Bagent started four games that year and finished 2-2. He completed 65.7% of his passes for 859 yards with three touchdowns and six interceptions, while also running for 109 yards and two scores.
He also made a strong impression in his first preseason under Johnson. Bagent beat out Case Keenum for the QB2 job after completing 66.7% of his throws for 511 yards and five touchdowns against one interception, along with 28 rushing yards.
That performance helped set up the Bears’ decision to reward him with a two-year contract extension during training camp last year, a move Bagent later became emotional about. It only deepened the connection between him and the fan base.
Bagent has built that support the hard way. He has earned every step, kept fighting for a roster spot, and given the Bears a backup quarterback who fits the moment whenever his number is called. He’s also shown real growth as a passer while continuing to bring value with his legs.
There were even rumors about other teams wanting to trade for him, but the Bears shut that down.
It’s still just preseason, and the result won’t change much in the bigger picture. But Bagent is set to play, and that makes this one worth tuning into. For Bears fans flipping on NFL Network on Saturday afternoon, there should be plenty to enjoy if Bagent looks like the same lively, efficient quarterback he’s been in Johnson’s offense.
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Tyson Bagent Just Got A Bears Chance That Could Change Everything
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