The Chicago Bears used to never be able to find quality quarterbacks late in the draft or undrafted free agency. That was something only other organizations can do. Now, all of a sudden, they seem to have developed a sharp eye for talent in that regard. It started with Tyson Bagent, a Division II star who has developed into one of the NFL’s best backups. Then, in 2024, they signed Austin Reed out of Western Kentucky. The young quarterback had put up a ridiculous 8,086 yards and 71 touchdowns in his two years as a starter. He followed that with a strong preseason, earning a spot on the Bears’ practice squad.
He made it through another training camp with the team in 2025 before being waived, forced out by the arrival of veteran Case Keenum. Rather than trying to battle his way onto another roster, Reed decided to take his chances in the United Football League, joining the Dallas Renegades franchise. He won the starting job, earning the chance to showcase what he could do on opening day against the Houston Gamblers. What followed was one of the best debuts in league history.
Austin Reed left no doubts about his ability.
He finished with 376 yards and three touchdowns on the afternoon, guiding Dallas to an easy 36-17 victory. Keep in mind that most of those numbers were achieved well before the start of the 4th quarter. Reed took his foot off the gas. He could’ve had way more. That didn’t stop him from laying down one of the nastiest trash-talking moments of the season. Late in the 3rd quarter, Gamblers defensive end Malik Fisher managed to get Reed down for a sack. He immediately started getting mouthy.
The quarterback responded with this clapback.
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Ouch. There is a reason that some of the best trash-talk moments involve players simply speaking the truth. Austin Reed could’ve easily fired off something personal, insulting the guy’s haircut or mother. That wasn’t necessary. Reminding Fisher that his supposed big defensive play came after his defense had already allowed 33 points was more than enough. It wasn’t the start Houston wanted. They had a big rebound year in 2025, going 5-5 after ending 2024 with a dismal 1-9 record. It was hoped this season would be their breakthrough.
Reed certainly drew media attention.
While the UFL might not be anywhere near the same level as the NFL, it has often proven to be a great feeder league. Lots of players who flourished there have earned opportunities in the NFL, particularly quarterbacks. Adrian Martinez, Luis Perez, and Alex McGough are some recent examples. If Reed can maintain this hot start into a successful season, there is no doubt he will get some phone calls from pro teams seeking backup help. It might not lead to the big-time starter opportunity, but it would be a significant pay bump. UFL quarterbacks earn around $100,000. NFL backups earn a minimum of $885,000.
Don’t say it would be a lateral move. Far from it.
Reed is fighting to secure his financial future. Getting to actually play is part of why he decided to join the UFL. Every self-respecting athlete wants to play the game they love. However, that isn’t the only motive. There is lots of money involved if they perform well. While the Bears weren’t able to keep him around, they at least helped get him noticed upon entering the NFL. Now he is following in the footsteps of other quarterbacks who never felt they were above playing in a “second-rate” league.
