Chicago Bears’ Tyson Bagent reveals biggest change since last NFL start

With quarterback Caleb Williams dealing with a worrying hamstring injury, the Chicago Bears may be force to turn to backup Tyson Bagent in Week 1 and beyond. That’s not a position the quarterback is unfamiliar with.

Back in 2023, prior to Williams’ arrival, Bagent made four starts for the Bears, going 2-2. Seeing as he was an undrafted free agent from DII Shepherd University, that made quite the impression on Chicago. Bagent has now lasted through a coaching change and gained the full trust of the Bears, earning a two-year contract extension.

But things are a lot different in Chicago than they were in 2023. Most notably, head coach Ben Johnson is calling the shots. The Bears are in a real position to make a playoff run. Bagent will be in all sorts of pressure to succeed as long as he is the starter.

He has been in the background, carefully studying Johnson’s offense. Bagent has stayed prepared for a moment like this.

Tyson Bagent ready to lead Chicago Bears

Chicago Bears Tyson Bagent — Sep 13, 2026; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Tyson Bagent (17) during pregame warmups before the game against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

Since Williams’ arrival to the Bears, Bagent has attempted just 15 passes during the regular season. Nine of them came in relief during Week 2. But when he hasn’t been playing, the backup quarterback has been learning. And he now feels he has all the tools necessary to succeed, via Dan Wiederer of the Athletic.

“Going into last year, I’m like, man, I feel great. I think I’ve got this thing figured out. Just going in with a lot of confidence,” Bagent told The Athletic. “Then a full year passes. And now I’m like, ‘Man, I didn’t know s— last year.’ Now I feel like I’m really in a good spot, continuing to learn and just continuing to make leaps and bounds on the mental side.”

Johnson will still be calling plays. Bagent will have the same offensive line and pass catchers. Of course, there is a major different between Williams and Bagent under center. But the backup isn’t flinching despite potentially having to start.

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