The backup quarterback is one of the most important players on an NFL roster, yet they could go an entire season without taking a snap. Just ask the San Francisco 49ers, who likely would have missed out on the playoffs in 2025 had it not been for Mac Jones. These backups offer rare security, especially for contending teams.
The Chicago Bears don't have to worry about their QB depth. Tyson Bagent is one of the most talented backup passers in the league. In fact, he's so skilled that he drew significant trade interest earlier this offseason.
Bagent may not be a factor for Chicago this season. Ben Johnson and the Bears hope he doesn't need to be. But if he is needed, he's good enough to keep the offense from going off the rails.
Tyson Bagent gives Bears invaluable Caleb Williams insurance
In a recent article, Tyler Sullivan of CBS Sports ranked the Bears' backup quarterback situation sixth among 16 NFL contenders. Sullivan mentioned current third-string quarterback Case Keenum in addition to Bagent. Keenum adds valuable experience to the relatively young room, having played for over a decade in the league.
Interestingly, many of the top backup quarterbacks in the NFL are on contenders. Teams like the 49ers, Seattle Seahawks, Cincinnati Bengals, and Kansas City Chiefs have all invested significantly in their QB depth.
The Bears are building the roster around Caleb Williams. He's the future of the franchise and the engine of Johnson's offense. But the $10 million set to hit Bagent's account over the next two seasons is evidence of just how important the backup QB is in Ryan Poles' roster construction. He provides a security blanket if Chicago does lose Williams for a stretch.
Bagent has hardly played since Williams arrived. Over the last two seasons, he's only logged six passes, completing five of them for 58 yards. In 2023, his rookie season, he started four games for the Bears. Chicago went 2-2 in that stretch, with Bagent scoring four touchdowns and throwing five interceptions, completing 65.1% of his passes.
The backup QB generated some trade buzz earlier this offseason, with his estimated value falling in the range of a sixth-round pick. They haven't shown much interest in moving him yet, but Keenum's presence gives them the flexibility to do so.
Read more: Bears' Caleb Williams comparison would be nails on a chalkboard for Packers fans
For now, Bagent gives Chicago one of the NFL's most secure backup quarterback situations, an especially valuable position for a team with Super Bowl aspirations.
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