Introduction
The National Football League (NFL) is often viewed as the final destination for the best football talents in the world. Most quarterbacks who make it to the league come from powerhouse schools like Alabama, Ohio State, or Clemson. Their paths are usually filled with high school stardom, national media attention, and first-round draft selections.
But then, there’s Tyson Bagent.
Bagent’s journey stands apart because it did not follow the traditional script. Coming from a small Division II school, Shepherd University, he was overlooked by scouts and passed over in the 2023 NFL Draft. Yet, his story of perseverance, discipline, and undeniable skill has propelled him into one of the most difficult positions in professional sports — quarterback in the NFL. His rise offers hope to overlooked athletes everywhere and proves that determination can rival pedigree.
Early Life and Family Background
Birth and Childhood
Tyson Jacob Bagent was born on June 8, 2000, in Martinsburg, West Virginia. He grew up in a close-knit family that valued discipline, competition, and hard work. Sports were always present in his household, but football wasn’t his only exposure to athletics.
Influence of His Father
Tyson’s father, Travis Bagent, is a well-known figure in the world of professional arm wrestling. Travis is a multiple-time world champion and one of the sport’s most charismatic personalities. Watching his father’s relentless pursuit of excellence deeply influenced Tyson.
The Bagent household taught Tyson lessons of confidence, resilience, and grit — traits that would later become crucial in his football career. Unlike many young quarterbacks who were showered with early recognition, Tyson had to build his reputation from scratch, fueled by a supportive yet demanding family environment.
High School Career at Martinsburg
Tyson attended Martinsburg High School, where he began to showcase his talent as a quarterback. Martinsburg is one of the most successful high school football programs in West Virginia, and Tyson became a central figure in their success.
- He helped his team secure multiple victories.
- Demonstrated leadership both on and off the field.
- Earned respect from teammates for his work ethic and ability to remain calm under pressure.
Despite his high school success, Bagent did not receive major Division I scholarship offers. Scouts were skeptical about his size, athleticism, and the level of competition he faced. Instead of viewing this as a setback, Tyson saw it as an opportunity to carve his own path.
College Career at Shepherd University
Why Shepherd?
Choosing Shepherd University, a Division II program located in West Virginia, was not a glamorous decision. However, for Tyson, it provided an opportunity to stay close to home while proving his skills.
Record-Breaking Achievements
Bagent’s college career quickly transformed Shepherd University into the center of attention for football fans who appreciate underdog stories.
- All-Time NCAA Passing Touchdowns Leader: Tyson threw over 159 touchdown passes, setting an NCAA all-division record.
- Massive Passing Yards: Accumulated more than 17,000 passing yards, ranking among the best in NCAA history.
- Harlon Hill Trophy (2021): Awarded to the most outstanding player in Division II football — the equivalent of the Heisman Trophy.
- Consistent Performer: Over five seasons, he displayed consistency, leadership, and remarkable production.
His statistics rivaled — and in some cases surpassed — quarterbacks from bigger programs. Yet, the narrative around him remained the same: “He’s talented, but can he compete against top-level athletes?”
NFL Draft and the Undrafted Journey
2023 NFL Draft
Despite his record-setting college career, Tyson Bagent went undrafted in the 2023 NFL Draft. NFL teams hesitated because he lacked experience against elite defenses. Scouts questioned his arm strength, mobility, and ability to adjust to the speed of the pro game.
Signing with the Chicago Bears
Shortly after the draft, the Chicago Bears signed Bagent as an undrafted free agent. To many, he was expected to be just another training camp body — someone who wouldn’t make it past the preseason. But Tyson had other plans.
Making the Bears’ Roster
Training Camp Impressions
During Bears training camp, Bagent impressed coaches and teammates with his intelligence, work ethic, and accuracy. He quickly stood out as more than just a backup option.
- Displayed poise during practice sessions.
- Showed quick decision-making abilities.
- Earned the respect of veteran players.
Preseason Performance
In the preseason, Bagent’s performance further fueled excitement. His calmness under pressure and ability to manage drives set him apart from other backups competing for a roster spot. He ultimately made the 53-man roster, a rare achievement for an undrafted Division II quarterback.
NFL Debut and Breakthrough
When the Bears’ starting quarterback, Justin Fields, suffered an injury in the 2023 season, Bagent was thrust into the spotlight. Few expected much from a rookie undrafted quarterback, but he surprised everyone.
- He became the first undrafted rookie from Division II to start an NFL game in decades.
- Showed maturity beyond his years in managing the game.
- Demonstrated accuracy and the ability to read defenses under pressure.
Though he had growing pains, his debut sent a strong message: Tyson Bagent belongs in the NFL.
Playing Style and Strengths
Strengths
- Accuracy: Known for his precise throws, especially in short-to-intermediate routes.
- Football IQ: Years of experience and study of defenses give him a strong mental edge.
- Leadership: Calm, collected, and respected by teammates.
- Work Ethic: Always willing to put in extra effort to improve.
Areas for Improvement
- Deep Ball Strength: Needs to improve on long, high-velocity passes.
- Athleticism: While mobile, he lacks the elite athleticism of modern dual-threat quarterbacks.
- Experience: Adjusting to NFL defenses and the speed of the game will take time.
Personal Life
Tyson Bagent remains grounded despite his newfound fame. His small-town roots and family background keep him humble. Off the field:
- He is described as approachable and hardworking.
- Maintains strong ties with his family, especially his father.
- Serves as a role model for young athletes who face rejection from big programs.
Challenges Ahead
Every young quarterback faces hurdles, and Tyson is no exception.
- He must prove that his early success is sustainable.
- The pressure of playing for a major NFL franchise can be overwhelming.
- As defenses adjust to his style, he will need to evolve and sharpen his game.
Legacy in the Making
Though at the beginning of his NFL career, Tyson Bagent’s story is already inspiring. From Division II football to the NFL, he has defied expectations and carved out a place in professional sports history. His determination reflects the idea that talent can be found anywhere, not just in Division I powerhouses.
Conclusion
Tyson Bagent’s rise from Shepherd University to the Chicago Bears is one of the most compelling underdog stories in recent NFL history. His journey highlights resilience, belief, and the power of hard work. While challenges lie ahead, his early career suggests that he is more than capable of facing them.
Whether he becomes a long-term starter or a valuable backup, Tyson Bagent’s legacy is secure: he is proof that dreams are achievable, no matter where they begin.
