Tyson Bagent Bio
Tyson Jacob Bagent is an American professional football quarterback for the Chicago Bears of the National Football League (NFL). Born on June 8, 2000, in Martinsburg, West Virginia, he played college football for the Shepherd Rams and was signed by the Bears as an undrafted free agent in 2023. Bagent excelled at Shepherd, breaking numerous records and earning accolades including the Harlon Hill Trophy, awarded to the top player in Division II. In his debut season, he became 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. Tyson has credited his father as his right-hand man and has shared that his father did not have running water until high school. He is of Welsh descent through his grandfather, who emigrated from Gwynedd, Wales. Bagent attended Martinsburg High School, where he played football and basketball. In 2017, he was named the West Virginia Gatorade Player of the Year after passing for 41 touchdowns. He finished his high school career with 7,800 passing yards and 112 touchdown passes. Despite being recruited by Division I Football Championship Subdivision schools, he committed to play college football at Shepherd University, a Division II school in Shepherdstown, West Virginia.
Path to American Football
Bagent became the starting quarterback for the Shepherd Rams as a freshman in 2018, making his debut on September 1, 2018. He threw for 518 yards and three touchdowns in his first game, setting school records for completions, attempts, and passing yards. His performance earned him the Mountain East Conference Offensive Player of the Week award multiple times throughout his college career. Over the years, Bagent broke numerous records at Shepherd, including the Division II record for completions and passing yards, as well as the NCAA record for passing touchdowns. He won the Harlon Hill Trophy and the Hardman Award in 2021, recognizing him as the top amateur athlete in West Virginia. After completing his college career, Bagent participated in the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine and was signed by the Chicago Bears as an undrafted free agent.
Tyson Bagent Career
Early Career (2023)
After being signed by the Chicago Bears, Bagent was initially viewed as a developmental player with low chances of making the final roster. However, he impressed during the preseason and secured a spot as the third-string quarterback. He made his NFL debut on October 15, 2023, completing 10 of 14 passes for 83 yards, along with a rushing touchdown. Bagent’s first start came in Week 7 against the Las Vegas Raiders, where he completed 21 of 29 passes for 162 yards and one touchdown, leading the Bears to a 30-12 victory. He became the first Bears quarterback to win in his inaugural NFL start since 2004. He continued to play as a starter for several weeks, showcasing his skills and adaptability.
Breakthrough (2023)
Bagent’s breakthrough moment came during his first start against the Las Vegas Raiders, where he demonstrated his ability to lead the team effectively. His performance solidified his position as a reliable quarterback for the Bears. He also made headlines for his unique plays, including lining up at wide receiver for a double pass during a game.
Notable Works and Milestones
Tyson Bagent’s signature work includes his record-setting college career at Shepherd University, where he earned multiple accolades and broke significant records. His transition to the NFL as an undrafted free agent and subsequent starting role with the Chicago Bears marks a significant milestone in his career.
Tyson Bagent Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Tyson Bagent has received several nominations and awards, particularly during his time at Shepherd University. He was recognized as the PSAC East Offensive Player of the Year and earned All-American honors multiple times.
Tyson Bagent Awards Won
Tyson Bagent has won several prestigious awards, including the Harlon Hill Trophy and the Hardman Award in 2021, acknowledging his exceptional performance in college football. He has also been named a two-time First-team DII All-American and a two-time PSAC East Offensive Player of the Year.
Tyson Bagent Family
Tyson Bagent is the oldest of four children in his family. His father, Travis Bagent, is a well-known arm-wrestling champion, which has influenced Tyson’s competitive spirit and work ethic.
Personal Life
Tyson Bagent has kept his personal life relatively private. He has expressed gratitude for his family’s support throughout his journey in football, particularly during his transition to the NFL. His focus remains on his career and contributing to the success of the Chicago Bears.
