Bears Backup QB Tyson Bagent Draws Interest from Cardinals

Arizona looking to add young QB talent as they rebuild roster

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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The Chicago Bears' backup quarterback Tyson Bagent has reportedly drawn interest from the Arizona Cardinals, who are in need of a long-term solution at the position. Bagent, an undrafted free agent in 2023, has impressed in limited action and could be a cost-effective option for the rebuilding Cardinals as they look to move on from Kyler Murray.

Why it matters

The Bears would be reluctant to part with Bagent, who provides valuable insurance behind starter Caleb Williams. However, if the Cardinals offer sufficient compensation, it could be an opportunity for the Bears to add defensive talent while allowing Bagent to compete for a starting job elsewhere.

The details

Bagent, 25, signed a two-year, $10 million extension with the Bears last August, making him one of the league's highest-paid backup quarterbacks. While he impressed in limited action and some fans called for him to challenge Williams for the starting job, those calls died down as Williams solidified himself as a rising star. The Cardinals, who went 3-14 last season, could view Bagent as a potential long-term answer at QB as they look to rebuild around a new signal-caller.

  • Bagent signed a two-year, $10 million extension with the Bears in August 2025.
  • The Cardinals went 3-14 in the 2025 NFL season.

The players

Tyson Bagent

The Bears' 25-year-old backup quarterback, who was an undrafted free agent in 2023 and has impressed in limited action.

Caleb Williams

The Bears' starting quarterback, who solidified his role as a rising star in the NFL in 2025.

Kyler Murray

The Cardinals' former starting quarterback, who is a prime candidate to be traded this offseason.

Jacoby Brissett

The Cardinals' current starting quarterback, who is only signed through the 2026 season.

Fernando Mendoza

The top quarterback prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft, who the Cardinals are unlikely to be able to select with the third overall pick.

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What they’re saying

“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, Sports Radio Host (Twitter)

What’s next

The Cardinals will need to decide whether to pursue a trade for Bagent or look to the 2026 NFL Draft or free agency to address their quarterback needs.

The takeaway

This potential trade would allow Bagent to compete for a starting job while providing the Bears with valuable draft capital to address other needs. It's a move that could benefit both teams as they look to build their rosters for the future.