Tyson Bagent is an American football quarterback for the Chicago Bears in the NFL, born June 8, 2000, in Martinsburg, West Virginia.[2][4] A standout at Division II Shepherd University, he started as a freshman in 2018, setting school records in his debut with 518 passing yards and three touchdowns, and later shattering NCAA Division II marks for career completions (1,400), passing yards (17,034), and touchdown passes (159, an all-divisions record).[1][2][3][6] Bagent earned the 2021 Harlon Hill Trophy as Division II's top player, along with the Hardman Award as West Virginia's premier amateur athlete, two-time All-American honors, and Division II Offensive Player of the Year accolades.[2][3][6] He led Shepherd to D-II semifinals twice, posted a 71% completion rate in his peak 2021 season (391-of-579 for 5,000 yards, 53 TDs), and was a 2022 Harlon Hill finalist.[2][3][6] Undrafted in 2023 out of Shepherd, Bagent improbably won the Bears' backup job behind Justin Fields, becoming the first D-II quarterback to start an NFL game in 13 years and the first Chicago starter to win his debut in nearly two decades.[1] He filled in effectively mid-season, showcasing poise praised by coaches.[1] Currently, Bagent serves as the top backup to Caleb Williams under new Bears coach Ben Johnson, having signed a two-year extension worth up to $16 million.[1] His journey from small-school stardom to NFL relevance highlights resilience, with former coaches predicting further ascent.[1] Named to the PSAC 75 Greatest Male Athletes in 2025-26, Bagent's legacy includes inspiring his community and elevating Shepherd's profile.[6][7] (298 words)