GLENDALE — The Arizona Cardinals are showing interest in a Chicago Bears backup quarterback, a move that could have significant implications for the team at the position.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Have heard the Cardinals are intrigued by Bears backup QB Tyson Bagent. He has one-year left on his deal so would have to trade for him. Grew up in Martinsburg, West Virginia and went to Shepherd University. Was an undrafted free-agent who beat out PJ Walker for the backup job…
— John Gambadoro (@Gambo987) February 17, 2026
According to Arizona Sports’ John Gambadoro, the Cardinals are eyeing quarterback Tyson Bagent, who has largely flown under the national radar in Chicago. Arizona is seeking stability at quarterback, as Kyler Murray’s future in the desert remains uncertain.
Nov 16, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Tyson Bagent (17) warms up before a game against the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-Imagn Images
Bagent played at Shepherd University and was an undrafted free agent before signing with the Bears. During his time in college, he recorded 17,034 passing yards, 159 passing touchdowns and 1,400 completions, according to the school’s website.
The position has been a roller coaster of emotions to handle over the last season. Murray struggled to find consistency and was injured midway through the year last season. Jacoby Brissett stepped up in his place, but the Cardinals would obviously need more depth at the position moving forward if Murray leaves.
Aug 22, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Chicago Bears tight end Joel Wilson (86) celebrates with quarterback Tyson Bagent (17) after scoring a touchdown during the second half against the Kansas City Chiefs at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images
The NFL has seen a growing number of teams turn to backups and undrafted players as legitimate options. One example is Queen Creek native Brock Purdy, who surged with the San Francisco 49ers beginning in 2022. Purdy started as the third-string quarterback but became the starter after injuries gave him the opportunity.
While Bagent is not guaranteed to be the next Purdy, the Cardinals’ reported interest may signal that he has qualities Arizona believes it can develop for next season.
Aug 22, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Tyson Bagent (17) gestures at the line of scrimmage against the Kansas City Chiefs during the second half of the game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images
The league is no longer solely relying on who can fill the stat sheet the most, but instead is emphasizing strategy — bringing in lesser-known players who can become X-factors for their organization.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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