The Arizona Cardinals are delving deep into options for a new quarterback as the likelihood grows that Kyler Murray has played his last game for the team. With the need for fresh talent under center, reports have emerged suggesting that the Cardinals are considering a trade for Tyson Bagent, the backup quarterback for the Chicago Bears.
Radio host John Gambadoro revealed on social media that the Cardinals are intrigued by Bagent”s potential. “I have heard the Cardinals are intrigued by Bears backup QB Tyson Bagent,” Gambadoro stated. “He has one year left on his deal, so they would need to trade for him. He grew up in Martinsburg, West Virginia, and attended Shepherd University. As an undrafted free agent, he secured the backup position with the Bears, outperforming PJ Walker, leading to a two-year, $10 million extension.”
Bagent”s journey is a classic underdog tale. After going undrafted from Division II Shepherd University, he earned his way onto the Bears” roster through hard work and determination. In limited game time, he has shown competence in the NFL. During a challenging 2023 season for the Bears, who ended up with the first overall pick in the draft, Bagent started five games after an injury sidelined Justin Fields, finishing with a record of 2-3. He amassed 859 passing yards, five touchdowns—two of which were rushing—and six interceptions as a rookie.
Should the Cardinals acquire Bagent, he will likely compete for the starting position alongside another candidate. With Murray”s disappointing 2025 season, the Cardinals are leaving no stone unturned in their quest for a replacement. Currently, veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett remains under contract for the 2025 season after stepping in for Murray. The Cardinals struggled last season, finishing 2-3 with Murray and just 1-11 under Brissett.
Arizona is also positioned with the third overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. However, the draft class does not feature many high-profile quarterbacks, with the consensus being that Fernando Mendoza is expected to be the first player selected, heading to the Las Vegas Raiders. Opinions are divided among scouts regarding whether any additional quarterbacks merit first-round consideration.
Murray, who signed a massive five-year contract worth $230.5 million in 2024, has two years remaining on his deal, with $159.8 million guaranteed. He is set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2029 and is anticipated to retain some trade value—unlike Tua Tagovailoa, who is expected to be released soon.
