John Gambadoro reported that the Arizona Cardinals are intrigued by Bears backup quarterback Tyson Bagent and have looked into his availability. That report alone tells you how Bagent is viewed around the league. Teams do not spend time checking on a backup unless they believe he can step in and keep things steady if needed.
Bagent is signed for two more seasons at roughly $4.7 million per year. That is a manageable number for a quarterback who has started NFL games and shown flashes. He could be a long term answer for another team, and he is exactly the type of player coaches trust to get them through tough stretches.
From the Bears side, this interest does not change much. Bagent is not extra depth. He is part of the plan. The Bears have invested heavily in Caleb Williams, and protecting that investment means having a reliable option behind him. This is not a roster spot you weaken just to collect a late draft pick.
Why the Bears Value Bagent So Highly
The Bears know what they have in Tyson Bagent. If Caleb Williams were to miss time, the offense would not fall apart. Bagent can operate the system, limit mistakes, and give the team a chance to stay competitive. That matters for a team that expects to play meaningful football.
🔥 Subscribe to the Untold Chicago YouTube channel to hear Chicago legends tell stories you’ve never seen in headlines — real moments, real experiences, straight from the athletes themselves.
There is also the locker room aspect. Bagent is well liked and respected. Players trust him, and coaches trust him. That kind of presence at quarterback carries weight, even if he is not the starter. Stability matters, especially at the most important position on the field.
Unless the Bears are offered a second or third round pick, this should not be a serious discussion. A late round pick does not replace the security Bagent provides. If something were to happen to Williams, the Bears would rather turn to Bagent than scramble for options that lower the ceiling of the entire team.
What I Am Hearing
One person I reached out to told me the Bears are very comfortable with their quarterback room. Tyson Bagent is viewed internally as a valuable piece, not someone they are looking to move. He is loved in the locker room, and that matters more than most outside chatter.
The feeling is that it would take a strong draft pick to even open the door. Until that happens, the Bears are content keeping Bagent exactly where he is.