In a move that underscores the Chicago Bears’ commitment to building depth at the quarterback position, the team has re-signed backup QB Tyson Bagent to a two-year contract extension. Announced on August 20, 2025, this deal keeps the undrafted sensation in Chicago through the 2027 season, providing stability behind starter Caleb Williams.

Valued at $10 million with the potential to escalate to $16 million through performance incentives, the extension highlights Bagent’s rapid rise from Division II obscurity to a reliable NFL contributor. This strategic signing not only bolsters the Bears’ quarterback room but also signals confidence in Bagent’s ability to step up when needed, a quality that has endeared him to fans and coaches alike.

For Bears enthusiasts searching for the latest on “Chicago Bears contract extensions” or “Tyson Bagent news,” this development is a testament to the franchise’s forward-thinking approach.

As the NFL landscape evolves with young talents like Williams leading the charge, securing a proven backup like Bagent ensures the team remains competitive, even in the face of injuries or unforeseen challenges. In this comprehensive article, we’ll dive into Bagent’s background, his performance history, the details of the new contract, reactions from the football world, and what this means for the Bears’ future aspirations.

Tyson Bagent’s Improbable Journey to the NFL

Tyson Bagent’s story is one of perseverance and grit, making him a fan favorite in Chicago and beyond. Born on June 8, 2000, in Martinsburg, West Virginia, Bagent grew up in a football-loving family. His father, Travis Bagent, is a renowned arm-wrestling champion, instilling in young Tyson a competitive spirit that would define his career.

Bagent attended Martinsburg High School, where he excelled as a quarterback, leading his team to multiple state championships and earning all-state honors.

However, Bagent’s path to the pros was far from straightforward. He chose to play college football at Shepherd University, a Division II program in Shepherdstown, West Virginia. Over five seasons (2018-2022), Bagent shattered records, becoming the NCAA’s all-time leader in touchdown passes with 159 and ranking second in passing yards with 17,034. His senior year was particularly dominant, throwing for 4,580 yards and 41 touchdowns while leading Shepherd to the playoffs. Despite these gaudy numbers, Bagent went undrafted in the 2023 NFL Draft, a snub attributed to his small-school background and questions about his arm strength translating to the pro level.

Undeterred, Bagent signed with the Chicago Bears as an undrafted free agent, earning a modest $25,000 signing bonus. His rookie contract was a three-year deal worth around $2.7 million, but it was his preseason performance that turned heads. Bagent’s poise and accuracy earned him a spot on the 53-man roster, beating out more experienced quarterbacks. For those interested in similar underdog tales, check out our internal article on Undrafted Free Agents Who Made It Big in the NFL, which explores players like Kurt Warner and Tony Romo.

Breaking Through: Bagent’s NFL Performance and Stats

Bagent’s NFL debut came sooner than expected. In 2023, with starter Justin Fields sidelined by injury, Bagent stepped in for four starts. He completed 94 of 143 passes (65.7%) for 859 yards, three touchdowns, and six interceptions. While the interception count raised eyebrows, Bagent showed flashes of brilliance, including a win against the Carolina Panthers where he threw for 162 yards and managed the game effectively. His rushing ability added another dimension, with 109 yards on 23 carries over the season.

In 2024, Bagent’s role shifted to a more traditional backup behind Fields (before the trade to Pittsburgh) and then Williams. He appeared in four games, completing just two passes, but his preparation and leadership in the quarterback room were praised by coaches. Overall, through two seasons, Bagent has compiled 96 completions on 145 attempts (66.2%) for 870 yards, three touchdowns, and six interceptions, per ESPN stats. These numbers, while modest, reflect his efficiency in limited action and his growth under offensive coordinator Shane Waldron.

Bagent’s stats don’t tell the full story, though. His football IQ, quick release, and ability to extend plays with his legs make him an ideal backup in today’s NFL, where injuries can derail seasons. Comparisons to players like Case Keenum or Gardner Minshew—journeymen who have thrived in spot starts—are apt. For a deeper dive into Bears quarterback stats, visit our related piece on Chicago Bears QB Depth Chart Analysis.

Details of the Two-Year Extension: A Smart Investment

The new contract, signed on August 20, 2025, extends Bagent through 2027. Base value: $10 million, with incentives pushing it to $16 million based on playing time, performance milestones, and team success. According to Over the Cap, Bagent’s 2025 cap hit is approximately $1.038 million, a bargain for a quarterback who has already proven he can win games. This deal replaces the final year of his rookie contract, where he was set to become a restricted free agent after 2025.

Why now? The Bears’ front office, led by GM Ryan Poles, values continuity, especially with Williams entering his second year. Bagent’s familiarity with the system and his positive influence on the locker room were key factors. As Poles noted in a press conference, “Tyson’s work ethic and resilience embody what we’re building here.” External sources like ESPN confirm this as a low-risk, high-reward move, securing a capable No. 2 QB at a fraction of starter money.

Incentives include bonuses for starts, passing yards, and playoff appearances, aligning Bagent’s goals with the team’s. This structure motivates him while protecting the Bears’ cap space for extensions to stars like DJ Moore or Montez Sweat. For more on NFL contract breakdowns, head over to Over the Cap’s Tyson Bagent page.

Emotional Reactions and Fan Buzz

The extension wasn’t just business—it was deeply personal for Bagent. In an emotional presser, he admitted to “crying like a baby” upon signing, reflecting on how the money would help his family and community back in West Virginia. “This is life-changing,” Bagent said, per the Bears’ official site. Teammates cheered him on, with Williams calling him “the heart of our QB room.”

Fan reactions on X (formerly Twitter) have been overwhelmingly positive. One user posted, “Tyson Bagent played college football for DII Shepherd Rams… He just signed a $10M extension and broke down in tears,” highlighting his underdog story. Another celebrated his preseason heroics: “What a week for Tyson Bagent. Signs a 2-year, $10M contract extension… leads the Bears back from a 17-point deficit.” Posts like these underscore Bagent’s cult following, with fans praising his humility and drive.

Media outlets echoed the sentiment. Fox Sports detailed his tearful reaction, while ESPN’s Courtney Cronin noted his “masterful 2-minute drive” in a preseason win over the Chiefs. For Bears fans, this extension feels like a win, reinforcing the team’s blue-collar ethos.

Implications for the Chicago Bears’ Future

This signing has broader implications for the Bears’ 2025 season and beyond. With Williams entrenched as the starter—following his promising rookie year—the team now has a reliable insurance policy. Bagent’s experience could prove invaluable if Williams faces any setbacks, allowing the offense to maintain rhythm.

Moreover, the deal fits into Poles’ cap management strategy. The Bears have over $50 million in projected 2026 cap space, enabling pursuits of free agents or extensions. Bagent’s presence also aids Williams’ development, providing mentorship from someone who’s navigated the NFL’s ups and downs.

Looking ahead, Bagent could emerge as a trade asset if he continues performing well in spot duties. Teams like the New York Giants or Minnesota Vikings, seeking QB depth, might come calling. However, Bears fans hope he stays, contributing to a potential playoff run. For insights on the Bears’ playoff chances, read our article Chicago Bears 2025 Playoff Predictions.

In the NFC North, where quarterbacks like Jordan Love and Jared Goff dominate headlines, Bagent’s extension quietly strengthens Chicago’s position. It’s a reminder that championship teams are built on depth, not just stars.

A Bear for the Long Haul

The Chicago Bears’ decision to re-sign Tyson Bagent to a two-year contract is more than a roster move—it’s a nod to hard work paying off. From his record-breaking college days to his emotional contract signing, Bagent embodies the resilience that defines the Bears franchise. As the team eyes contention in 2025, fans can rest easy knowing their backup QB is locked in.

Whether you’re a die-hard Bears supporter or an NFL aficionado searching for “Tyson Bagent contract details,” this extension is a feel-good story with real strategic value. Stay tuned to likiy.net for more Bears coverage, including our upcoming piece on Caleb Williams’ Sophomore Leap. For official updates, visit the Chicago Bears website.