The Chicago Bears were expected to showcase rookie sensation Caleb Williams in their 38–0 preseason rout of the Buffalo Bills. Instead, it was Tyson Bagent, the undrafted quarterback out of Shepherd University, who delivered a standout performance throwing for 205 yards and a touchdown and stirred up a legitimate quarterback conversation in the Windy City.
From Underdog to Offensive Catalyst
Just two seasons ago, Bagent was a small-school hopeful clinging to NFL dreams. On Saturday, he ran Chicago’s offense with the poise of a seasoned veteran, commanding drives and exposing Buffalo’s defense. Bagent’s rise proves that talent can outshine draft pedigree and that he belongs on the NFL stage.
His seamless fit in new offensive coordinator Ben Johnson’s system was especially eye-opening. With quick decisions, downfield precision, and confident tempo, Bagent made the scheme look second nature. “He’s confident, he’s decisive, and he makes the offense click,” Johnson said postgame, an endorsement rarely given to backup quarterbacks in August.
No Longer a Cult Favorite Now a Legitimate Threat
Once considered an internet cult hero, “Bagent Mania” now carries real weight. His accuracy and control are forcing Bears coaches and fans to look beyond the “backup” label. Receiver Olamide Zaccheaus summed it up: “With Tyson, we know we’re in good hands if his number gets called.”
In a league where depth at quarterback can make or break a season, the Bears appear to have something few others do two signal-callers with true starting-caliber talent.
A Quarterback Controversy?
While Caleb Williams is still the face of the franchise, Bagent is making it clear that the spotlight in Chicago can and should be shared. His grit, poise, and playmaking have turned a preseason afterthought into one of the NFL’s most intriguing storylines. For the Bears, it’s not a controversy, yet, but it’s certainly a luxury problem most teams would love to have.
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Karan Singh Rathod is a dedicated sports journalist known for his sharp attention to detail and flair for storytelling. With over a year of experience in writing and editorial work, he blends thorough research with compelling narratives to deliver engaging sports content. A passionate follower of football and cricket, he starts his mornings with a newspaper to stay updated with sports, fashion, and current affairs. Outside of journalism, Karan enjoys traveling and discovering new destinations.
