LAKE FOREST, Ill. (WGN) — The Chicago Bears are locking down backup quarterback Tyson Bagent on a two-year extension.
Sources told WGN-TV that Bagent and the Bears have agreed to a two-year, $10 million extension worth up to $16 million if he hits additional incentives.
The Bears posted the deal on social media Wednesday afternoon.
Bagent is now signed through 2027. Prior to the extension, Bagent would have been a restricted free agent after this season.
The 25-year-old comes from humble beginnings and was brought to tears at Halas Hall Wednesday after his contract extension hit the news.
“A lot of people don’t know this, but my dad is – he’s my right hand man and he didn’t even have running water until he was in high school,” Bagent said. “There’s definitely a lot of things—and people that I could certainly help with this gift I’ve been blessed with. Just little things like that.
“I don’t really know anybody back at home with any money, so it feels good. It’s certainly a weight off my shoulders and my family’s shoulders. It definitely means a lot.”
He starred at Division II Shephard University, which is close to his hometown, and threw for a gaudy 17,034 yards during his career. He had D-1 interest—including from Maryland—headed into his senior year, but decided to stay home.
The Bears signed him as an undrafted free agent and he’s shown ability to process quickly during his time at Halas Hall. During his rookie year, he started four games in 2023 after Justin Fields suffered an injury.
“We are fortunate to ensure that Tyson remains a member of the Chicago Bears,” General Manager Ryan Poles said. “He is one of the hardest workers on our team and, in addition to being a great competitor and teammate, he is a catalyst for positive influence throughout our entire organization.”
Head coach Ben Johnson said Wednesday that he doesn’t “think there is any question about it” when asked if he believes Bagent can be a starting quarterback in the NFL.
Bagent was limited to two completions last year and enters the 2025 season with a quarterback room that now features a veteran to learn more from — Case Keenum.
He had a 103.6 quarterback rating in Sunday’s blowout preseason win versus the Bills and will look to lock down the Bears’ No. 2 quarterback spot on the depth chart when Chicago travels to Arrowhead Stadium Friday for their final preseason game against the Kansas City Chiefs.
The Bears open up the 2025 season on Monday Night Football Sept. 8 against the Vikings.