Introduction
Tyson Bagent’s rise is the quintessential underdog story: from a Division II quarterback at Shepherd University to an emotional contract extension with the Chicago Bears in August 2025. This article dives deep into the five key facets that define his narrative—his jersey, father, height, CrossFit background, and historic contract—painting a full picture of the man behind the helmet.
1. Jersey
Wearing number 17, Tyson Bagent represents perseverance and promise for the Chicago Bears. Since signing as an undrafted free agent in 2023, he’s been the reliable backup behind highlighted starters like Justin Fields and Caleb Williams. His jersey number has now become a symbol of the triumph of the underdog.
2. Father
Tyson’s father, Travis Bagent, is a legendary arm-wrestling athlete known in his circle as “The Beast.” With nearly 30 world titles, he instilled a mindset of discipline and grit in his son from an early age. Growing up in his dad’s CrossFit affiliate gym, Tyson absorbed the value of hard work, resilience, and mental toughness that now define his NFL journey.
At his August 20, 2025 contract press conference, Tyson tearfully acknowledged his dad’s role, explaining that Travis grew up without running water, making this contract more than a financial milestone—it’s a life-changing opportunity.
3. Height
Standing 6 ft 3 in (1.90–1.91 m) and weighing about 212–213 lbs, Tyson fits the classic quarterback mold with an ideal size for reading defenses and enduring hits.
4. CrossFit Roots
CrossFit shaped Tyson from his youth. Immersed in a CrossFit affiliate run by his father, he embraced challenges early and developed a relentless competitive spirit. His ability to “walk on his hands almost 100 yards” underscores the athleticism and discipline CrossFit helped instill.
This foundation translated to his football performance—on October 22, 2023, in his first NFL start, Bagent led the Bears to a win over the Raiders, breaking a 10-game home losing streak. He posted 162 passing yards, a touchdown, and no turnovers, earning recognition for his poise and power under pressure.
5. Contract
-
Initial Deal (2023): Signed a 3-year, $2.72 million undrafted free agent contract, including $25,000 guaranteed and average annual salary of about $906,667.
-
Contract Extension (August 20, 2025): Received a two-year extension worth $10 million, potentially rising to $16 million with incentives. The deal extends his tenure through the 2027 season—and is one of the most significant extensions ever awarded to a Bears backup QB.
This extension makes Bagent one of the highest-paid backup QBs in the NFL and symbolizes the organization’s recognition of his impact on and off the field.
6. Career Summary & Achievements
| Category | Highlights |
|---|---|
| College | Shepherd University standout; holds career records in completions (1,400), passing yards (17,034), touchdown passes (159). Winner of the 2021 Harlon Hill Trophy and Hardman Award. |
| NFL Debut | Joined Chicago Bears in 2023 as undrafted free agent; first Division II undrafted rookie QB to start an NFL game since 1950. |
| Performance | In his initial start, completed 21-of-29 passes (162 yards), no turnovers, and led the team to a home victory. |
| 2023 Stats | Started 4 games, 94 completions on 143 attempts (65.7%), 859 passing yards, 3 TDs, 6 INTs. |
| 2024 Role | Served as backup to Caleb Williams with limited playing time. |
| Contract Extension | Secured a two-year deal valued up to $16M with incentives. |
7. Why Tyson Bagent Stands Out
-
Underdog Legacy: A Division II QB who defied the odds and earned a starting role in the NFL.
-
CrossFit Mentality: Combines physical resilience with mental fortitude from non-traditional training.
-
Family Values: Deep-rooted connection to his father and hometown fuels his motivation.
-
Team Pro Value: Recognized as a team-first player, crucial for locker-room leadership.
-
Financial Breakthrough: His contract provides stability and recognizes his rising profile—especially rare for backup QBs.
8. FAQs
Q1: What jersey number does Tyson Bagent wear?
He wears #17 for the Chicago Bears.
Q2: Who is Tyson Bagent’s father?
His father is Travis Bagent, a world-class professional arm wrestler with multiple world titles; he’s been a major influence on Tyson’s athletic mindset.
Q3: How tall is Tyson Bagent?
He stands around 6 ft 3 in (1.90–1.91 m) and weighs approximately 212 lbs.
Q4: What’s Tyson Bagent’s CrossFit connection?
Raised in his father’s CrossFit gym, Tyson’s training instilled discipline, resilience, and competitive spirit that shaped his football discipline.
Q5: What was his initial NFL contract?
A 3-year, $2.72 million undrafted free agent deal in 2023, with modest guarantees.
Q6: What is his contract extension?
In August 2025, he signed a two-year extension worth $10 million, potentially rising to $16 million with incentives—keeps him with the Bears through 2027.
Q7: Why was the contract extension notable?
It made him one of the NFL’s highest-paid backup QBs and lifted significant financial weight from his family—particularly emotional given his father’s humble beginnings.
Conclusion
Tyson Bagent’s journey—from CrossFit-sharpened youth to Shepherd University record-setter, to Chicago Bears backup quarterback with a major contract—epitomizes resilience, family influence, and hard-earned success. His story reflects more than stats: it’s a testament to overcoming odds and lifting those around you.
