Tyson Bagent Contract: Extension| Details| Rookie

Introduction

Chicago Bears’ backup quarterback Tyson Bagent recently made headlines with a pivotal two-year contract extension. As a former undrafted rookie from Division II Shepherd University, Bagent’s rise to this point is both unexpected and extraordinary—a narrative rich with perseverance, hard work, and resilience. In this in-depth article, we explore:

• The key details behind the contract extension

• Bagent’s rookie journey and stats

• What this means for Bagent, the Bears organization, and NFL fans

• The broader significance in the context of Bears’ history

We’ll break it all down—story, stats, sentiments, and implications—in a style tailored to boost SEO visibility around phrases like “Tyson Bagent contract extension,” “Bagent rookie journey,” and “backup QB value.”

1. Contract Extension: What Happened?

On August 20, 2025, the Chicago Bears announced a two-year extension for Tyson Bagent, securing his role through the 2027 season. While the team withheld official financial specifics, reports from his agents reveal a $10 million base value, potentially rising to $16 million with incentives tied to performance and playing time. Spotrac data confirms an average annual salary (APY) of $5 million for the two-season duration.

Why this matters:

• It ties Bagent to the Bears beyond the end of 2025, preventing him from reaching restricted free agency.

• It underscores his value as a dependable high-end backup quarterback.

2. A Rare Move—Bears Extend QB for the First Time Since 2014

This extension is notable for one striking reason: it’s the first contract extension awarded to a quarterback by the Bears since Jay Cutler signed one in January 2014. That’s over a decade without extending their QB depth—despite starting 14 different QBs and rarely sustaining consistency at the position.

This break in pattern signals two things:

1. Bagent has earned the organization’s trust beyond a fleeting need.

2. It reflects the Bears’ more stable approach to building roster depth, especially at QB.

3. Bagent’s Emotional Reaction & Personal Impact

At his press conference, a visibly emotional Bagent shared his gratitude, touching on how the deal would transform life for his family and upbringing. Highlighting his father’s challenging childhood—“he didn’t even have running water until high school”—Bagent called the contract “a weight off my family’s shoulders”

These heartfelt remarks underscore the human narrative behind contract numbers—and reflect why fans have embraced his journey.

4. Bagent’s Rookie to Now: Stats & Path to the NFL

4.1 College Achievements

• Division II powerhouse at Shepherd University.

• Broke NCAA DII records for career completions (1,400), passing yards (17,034), and touchdown passes (159).

• Winner of the Harlon Hill Trophy (2021), recognizing the best DII player.

4.2 NFL Entry & 2023 Season

• Joined the Chicago Bears as an undrafted free agent in 2023 WikipediaOver the Cap.

• Made the active 53-man roster out of camp. By mid-season, he stepped in for Justin Fields due to injury.

• In his rookie campaign, Bagent started four games, going 2–2, completing 65.7% of passes for 859 yards, with 3 touchdowns and 6 interceptions.

4.3 2024 Season

• Took on the role of primary backup, behind rookie starter Caleb Williams. He saw limited action in regulation during the season.

4.4 Preseason 2025 Highlights

• Delivered notable performances, including a 12-of-22 passing showing for 196 yards and a TD against the Bills.

• These showings contributed directly to the team’s confidence in solidifying him with an extension.

5. What This Deal Means for the Bears & Bagent’s Role

5.1 For the Bears

• Ensures a reliable backup QB through 2027—valuable insurance in case of starter injury.

• Demonstrates organizational commitment to continuity: instead of constantly auditioning, they’re building depth on trust.

5.2 For Tyson Bagent

• A rare-case contract for a QB who began as an undrafted DII rookie.

• Anchors his NFL career with financial security and acknowledges his hard work and potential.

• Offers more preparation time under a new coaching staff (Ben Johnson) and familiarity with system, expanding future opportunities.

6. How This Extension Fits Into Modern NFL QB Backup Market

Per WV MetroNews, Bagent ranks among the higher-paid backup quarterbacks via average annual value, trailing only players like Anthony Richardson, Marcus Mariota, Jacoby Brissett, Zach Wilson, Jarrett Stidham, and Tyrod Taylor. This places him in notable company—especially for someone with minimal draft pedigree.

7. Summary in 8 Bullet Points

• Two-year extension signed on August 20, 2025, securing Bagent through 2027.

• $10 million base value, up to $16 million with incentives.

• Bears’ first QB extension since Jay Cutler in 2014.

• Bagent’s reaction—emotional and heartfelt, citing his father’s struggles.

• Stellar DII career at Shepherd University: record-breaking passing stats.

• Made the Bears as an undrafted rookie, started 4 games in 2023, 2–2 record.

• Preseason 2025 success against the Bills cemented trust.

• Ranks among highest-paid backups by APY—an impressive accomplishment for an undrafted QB.

Final Thoughts

Tyson Bagent’s story—from underdog undrafted DII quarterback to emotionally-charged contract extension—is one that resonates with fans and analysts alike. This contract is more than just numbers: it’s a symbol of perseverance, respect earned, and potential unlocked.

For the Bears, it’s a smart organizational move—securing depth with a proven locker room leader. For Bagent, it’s validation—and a stepping stone for greater roles ahead.