Chicago Bears face big choice on backup QB Tyson Bagent
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Caleb Williams’ Health is a Game-Changer for the Bears
The Chicago Bears have found their franchise quarterback—and his durability is already paying dividends. Caleb Williams has taken every snap under center since entering the league, proving his resilience in a position where injuries often derail seasons. Teams win more when their QB stays upright, as Washington’s struggles last year demonstrated when their starter missed time due to injury.
Williams’ reliability could simplify the Bears’ roster decisions. One name likely on the move: Tyson Bagent, their third-string QB. After flashing in four starts as a rookie in 2023, Bagent has already drawn trade interest—so much so that the Bears confirmed teams inquired about him this offseason.
But don’t expect a swift exit. Chicago bolstered its depth by signing Case Keenum as Williams’ emergency backup. At 39, Keenum’s last meaningful action came in 2023, raising questions about his long-term utility. If Williams goes down, Bagent’s stock skyrockets, making a trade now seem premature. A mid-to-late draft pick—perhaps a sixth-rounder—might be the best return Chicago could fetch for him.
Teams rarely carry three quarterbacks in today’s NFL, so trading Bagent would align with the league’s trend. Yet, flexibility could prove smarter, especially if Williams remains healthy. The Bears face a classic dilemma: cash in now or wait for a bigger return down the road.