Tyson Bagent

The Bears’ sudden move to replace second-string quarterback P.J. Walker came as a surprise after Chicago just signed the fourth-year backup to a two-year contract worth $4.15M with over $2M in guarantees this Spring. Walker’s replacement on the roster Tyson Bagent will compete with Nathan Peterman for QB2 duties behind star signal caller Justin Fields.

Though relatively unknown, Tyson Bagent is coming off a historic run in Division II. He passed for a total of 9,580 yards and 94 touchdowns in his final two college seasons, and his 159 career passing touchdowns represent the current NCAA record. According to Bears coach Matt Eberflus, Bagent will be the first QB off the bench in competition with Nathan Peterson. It’s worth noting Tyson Bagent was in fact the second QB to enter Chicago’s final preseason game, ending the preseason 20-156-0-1 while adding two touchdowns on the ground.

Bagent rightfully remains undrafted in redraft leagues. However, the push by Chicago to fortify their aerial attack should instill faith in the wide receiver corp, even in the worst case of Justin Fields going down to injury.