Bears’ Tyson Bagent gets defensive leader endorsement after Caleb Williams injury

The Chicago Bears will anxiously await further information on quarterback Caleb Williams‘ worrying hamstring injury. In the meantime, the franchise will put their faith in backup Tyson Bagent.

When Williams went down against the Minnesota Vikings in Week 2, Bagent came in to complete 5-of-9 passes for 54 yards. He almost led the Bears to a game-winning touchdown drive before falling short.

Beyond just his work in Week 2, Bagent has been with Chicago since 2023. He has gained the trust of the coaching staff and his teammates, leading to a two-year contract extension. While the Bears never want to see Williams go down, Bagent was signed to that deal for a moment like this.

Chicago will still need to figure out their quarterback plans once Williams’ tests come back. But the spotlight is now on Bagent amid the Bears’ push for success.

Bears’ Grady Jarrett believes in Tyson Bagent

Grady Jarrett, Dayo Odeyingbo, Chicago Bears — Jan 4, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears defensive end Grady Jarrett (50) celebrates after a sack against the Detroit Lions during the first half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images

As a now 12-year NFL veteran, defensive tackle Grady Jarrett is a true leader and captain for the Bears. He made it clear Chicago will rally around Williams and that the franchise always has their quarterback’s back.

But as Bagent steps under center, Jarrett is staying optimistic. He believes that backup has all the tools necessary to help the Bears win, via Jarrett’s postgame press conference.

“He’s been here a long time just being consistent. Nobody flinched when we knew he had an opportunity to down and try to win us a game,” Jarrett said. “We were one play away from winning that game. We have full confidence in Tyson. We get to see how he works everyday, how he takes care of his craft, takes care of his body. How he prepares each and every week.”

“There’s a reason he was able to get an extension here,” he continued. “He does nothing but work and produce. However it goes, we love Tyson, we believe in Tyson.”

Every snap with Bagent at quarterback will be under a microscope. But he has stayed ready for his opportunity to start at the NFL level. Bagent has full confidence from that Bears. It’s now up to him to go out and produce.

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