Cardinals Interested in Trading for Bears Backup QB Tyson Bagent

With Kyler Murray's future in Arizona uncertain, the team is exploring options to replace him at quarterback.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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The Arizona Cardinals are reportedly interested in trading for Chicago Bears backup quarterback Tyson Bagent. Bagent, an undrafted free agent out of Division II Shepherd University, has impressed in limited NFL action and could be a potential replacement for the struggling Kyler Murray, whose future with the Cardinals is uncertain after another disappointing season.

Why it matters

The Cardinals are in need of a new starting quarterback after Kyler Murray's struggles, and Bagent could provide a cost-effective option with upside as an undrafted player who has shown promise. This move would signal a shift in the Cardinals' quarterback plans as they look to move on from the Murray era.

The details

Bagent, a native of Martinsburg, West Virginia, went undrafted out of Shepherd University but earned a roster spot with the Bears and eventually beat out PJ Walker for the backup job. In limited action last season, Bagent went 2-3 as a starter, throwing for 859 yards, 5 touchdowns, and 6 interceptions. The Cardinals currently have veteran Jacoby Brissett under contract, but are looking to find a long-term solution at the position.

  • In the 2023 season, Bagent went 2-3 as a starter for the Bears after Justin Fields was injured.
  • The Cardinals are expected to move on from Kyler Murray after the 2025 season.

The players

Tyson Bagent

A backup quarterback for the Chicago Bears who went undrafted out of Division II Shepherd University but has impressed in limited NFL action.

Kyler Murray

The current starting quarterback for the Arizona Cardinals, whose future with the team is uncertain after another disappointing season.

Jacoby Brissett

A veteran quarterback currently under contract with the Arizona Cardinals who could be in the mix to replace Kyler Murray.

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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 with Chicago and was so good the Bears signed him to a 2-year $10M extension.”

— John Gambadoro, Phoenix area radio host (X)

What’s next

The Cardinals will need to decide whether to pursue a trade for Tyson Bagent or explore other options to replace Kyler Murray as their starting quarterback.

The takeaway

The Cardinals' interest in Tyson Bagent highlights the team's need to find a new long-term solution at quarterback after the Kyler Murray era appears to be coming to an end. Bagent's underdog story and promising NFL performances make him an intriguing option, but the Cardinals will have to weigh the risks and potential rewards of trading for the young quarterback.