Tyson Jacob Bagent Bio
Tyson Jacob Bagent is an American professional football quarterback currently playing for the Chicago Bears in the National Football League (NFL). Born on June 8, 2000, in Martinsburg, West Virginia, Bagent has made a remarkable transition from a standout college career at Shepherd University to becoming a notable NFL player. He is recognized for breaking numerous records at the Division II level and for his historic achievement as the first Division II undrafted rookie quarterback to start an NFL game since 1950.
Early Life and Background
Tyson Bagent grew up in Martinsburg, West Virginia, as the oldest of four children. His father, Travis Bagent, is a world arm-wrestling champion with 17 titles, and Tyson credits him as a significant influence and support throughout his life. Bagent is of Welsh descent through his grandfather, who emigrated from Maentwrog, Gwynedd. He attended Martinsburg High School, where he excelled in football and basketball, earning the West Virginia Gatorade Player of the Year award in 2017 after passing for 41 touchdowns. He finished his high school career with 7,800 passing yards and 112 touchdown passes.
Despite recruitment interest from Division I Football Championship Subdivision schools, Bagent committed to Shepherd University, a Division II program in Shepherdstown, West Virginia. This decision set the foundation for his record-breaking college career and eventual rise to the NFL.
Path to American Football
At Shepherd University, Bagent became the starting quarterback as a freshman in 2018. He quickly made an impact by setting school records for completions, attempts, and passing yards in his debut game. Throughout his college career, he consistently earned accolades such as First-team All-MEC and PSAC East Offensive Player of the Year. He also set the NCAA Division II record for completions and passing yards, as well as the NCAA record for passing touchdowns with 159.
Bagent’s college success culminated in winning the prestigious Harlon Hill Trophy in 2021, awarded to the top player in Division II football. He also received the Hardman Award as West Virginia’s top amateur athlete and was named a two-time All-American. His achievements attracted attention from NFL scouts despite concerns about his competition level and arm strength.
Tyson Bagent Career
Early Career (2018–2022)
Bagent’s college career at Shepherd University spanned five seasons, during which he broke nearly every quarterback record at the school. In his freshman year, he set school and conference records for passing yards and touchdowns. His sophomore and junior seasons were marked by consistent high-level performances, although the 2020 season was largely canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Returning in 2021, Bagent led Division II in completions, passing yards, and touchdowns, securing multiple player of the year honors.
In 2022, Bagent continued to demonstrate his prowess by breaking the all-division NCAA record for touchdown passes. His leadership helped Shepherd reach the semifinals of the Division II Playoffs, solidifying his reputation as one of the most prolific quarterbacks in Division II history.
Chicago Bears Era (2023–Present)
After going undrafted in the 2023 NFL Draft, Bagent signed with the Chicago Bears as a free agent. Despite being initially viewed as a developmental player with low chances of making the final roster, his impressive preseason performance earned him a spot as the third-string quarterback. He was promoted to second string by Week 4 of the regular season.
Bagent made his NFL debut on October 15, 2023, stepping in after an injury to starter Justin Fields. He completed 10 of 14 passes and scored a rushing touchdown in his first game. Shortly after, he became the starting quarterback for the Bears, winning his first NFL start and becoming the first Bears quarterback to do so since 2004. Over four starts, he threw for 859 yards with three touchdowns and six interceptions, compiling a 2–2 record before returning to backup duties.
Driving Style and Strengths
Tyson Bagent is known for his strong passing accuracy and athleticism. His ability to read defenses and execute plays under pressure has been a key factor in his rapid adaptation to the NFL level. His mobility and decision-making complement his passing skills, making him a versatile quarterback. His rapport with coaches and teammates has helped him progress quickly despite coming from a smaller college program.
Notable Events and Milestones
Bagent’s most notable milestone is becoming the first Division II undrafted rookie quarterback to start an NFL game since 1950. His record-breaking college career, highlighted by the Harlon Hill Trophy and multiple offensive player of the year awards, also stands out. His first NFL win as a starter marked a significant achievement for an undrafted player from a Division II school.
Tyson Bagent Career Wins
Tyson Bagent’s career includes numerous wins at the collegiate level, where he led Shepherd University to multiple playoff appearances and set records for passing touchdowns and yards. His transition to the NFL has already seen him secure his first professional win as a starting quarterback for the Chicago Bears.
Shepherd University Highlights
During his time at Shepherd, Bagent amassed over 17,000 passing yards and 159 passing touchdowns, setting NCAA Division II records. He was a key player in Shepherd’s playoff runs and earned multiple player of the year honors. His collegiate success laid the groundwork for his entry into the NFL.
Other Wins & Performances
Bagent’s high school career was distinguished by 7,800 passing yards and 112 touchdown passes, earning him the West Virginia Gatorade Player of the Year award. These early achievements demonstrated his potential and helped him secure a college football opportunity at Shepherd University.
Tyson Bagent Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Tyson Bagent comes from a family with a strong competitive background. His father, Travis Bagent, is a world arm-wrestling champion with 17 titles, which Tyson credits as a major influence in his life. His Welsh heritage comes from his grandfather, who emigrated from Wales to the United States.
Personal Life
Details about Tyson Bagent’s personal life, including marital status and children, are not publicly available. He maintains an active presence on social media platforms, engaging with fans and sharing his professional journey.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, Tyson Bagent signed a two-year, $10 million contract extension with the Chicago Bears, reflecting the team’s confidence in his potential. He secured the backup quarterback position behind rookie starter Caleb Williams and contributed in creative offensive plays, including lining up as a wide receiver for trick plays. Bagent’s role in the team has expanded beyond traditional quarterback duties, demonstrating his versatility and value to the Bears’ offense.
Throughout the season, Bagent remained a reliable backup and occasional playmaker, supporting the team’s offensive strategies and providing depth at the quarterback position. His contract extension marked the first quarterback deal for the Bears since 2014, underscoring his growing importance to the franchise.