NFL teams seeking quarterback reinforcements will face limited options during the 2026 offseason, heightening interest in promising short-term solutions like Tyson Bagent. Although currently a backup quarterback for the Chicago Bears, Bagent could attract significant trade attention if the Bears decide to explore offers ahead of the 2026 NFL season.
Should the Bears be open to trading Tyson Bagent, several teams with strong coaching or management ties present plausible landing spots for the young quarterback. These organizations might view Bagent as a viable candidate to address their quarterback needs on a cost-effective basis.
Potential Teams for Tyson Bagent if the Bears Explore Trade Options in 2026
New York Jets as a Possible Destination
The New York Jets emerge as a logical contender for Tyson Bagent due to their ongoing search for a reliable quarterback. Owning the 2nd and 16th picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, their chances of drafting a quarterback early appear limited. Although the Jets might pursue prospects such as Ty Simpson, if they do not develop enough confidence in him, acquiring Bagent in exchange for a Day 2 draft pick could represent a strategic move.
Strong connections within the Jets organization could facilitate this deal. Aaron Glenn and Ben Johnson, both former Detroit Lions coordinators, bring established trust in talent evaluation. If Ben Johnson endorses Bagent as a potential starter, the Jets appear well-positioned to take a calculated risk on his abilities.
Arizona Cardinals Seeking a Temporary Quarterback Solution
The Arizona Cardinals enter the 2026 offseason almost certain to require a short-term quarterback bridge due to uncertainty surrounding Kyler Murray’s future. With new head coach Mike LaFleur installed, the Cardinals are poised to evaluate alternatives prior to making long-term commitments in 2027.
Bagent offers a financially sensible option for the Cardinals, who intend to establish a different leadership at quarterback as LaFleur begins to direct the offense. The team’s shift signals the likely end of Murray’s tenure and opens a window for Bagent to compete for significant playing time during this transitional phase.
Atlanta Falcons’ Interest Fuelled by Front Office Connections
The Falcons could present a compelling landing spot for Bagent due to recent front office changes. Ian Cunningham, Atlanta’s new general manager, previously served as assistant GM in Chicago, working under Bears GM Ryan Poles. This relationship may encourage a trade involving Bagent.
Complicating the Falcons’ quarterback situation are questions over Michael Penix Jr.’s status as a franchise leader and Kirk Cousins’ expected release. These factors create an opening for Bagent to compete for the starting role, potentially surpassing Penix in a transparent quarterback competition.
Given these dynamics, the Falcons might be willing to exchange a draft pick for Bagent’s services, capitalizing on both the front office familiarity and the team’s quarterback uncertainties.
Why Tyson Bagent’s 2026 Trade Prospects Matter
The scarcity of proven quarterback options in 2026 elevates Tyson Bagent’s profile as a valuable asset for teams requiring immediate, affordable solutions. His potential trades to the Jets, Cardinals, or Falcons highlight how tactical front office relationships and team needs can drive moves involving backup quarterbacks.
Each possible destination offers a unique environment where Bagent could compete for a significant role, impacting not only his career trajectory but also team dynamics and roster building strategies. As the 2026 offseason approaches, NFL observers should closely monitor these situations to understand how Bagent’s future unfolds amid league-wide quarterback challenges.
