Bears News: Tyson Bagent emotional after receiving contract extension: "It means everything"

Ariana Pensy · Correspondent · 5 hours ago

CHICAGO - In a league where players hold out all the time to try to get more money, it is refreshing to see the genuine appreciation from quarterback Tyson Bagent after he received his two-year, $10 million contract extension.

“I’m very happy. I think all parties are very happy. I think this extension with this staff and these offensive minds, I think for the longevity of my career and wherever I end up in the years to come will serve me well down the line. So, as far as where I came from, I can’t even really get too much into it without crying. It means a lot,” Bagent said. “A lot of people don’t know this, but my dad is (my) right-hand man and he didn’t have running water until he was in high school. So, there’s definitely a lot of things and people that I think I could certainly help with this gift I’ve been blessed with. But, just little things like that. I don’t really know anybody back at home with any money. So, it feels good. It’s certainly a weight off my shoulders and my family’s shoulders and it definitely means a lot.”

Bagent’s journey to the NFL is a true Cinderella story. He started from humble beginnings in West Virginia, spent his entire career at a Division II school, Shepherd, and became the first quarterback from that school to play in the NFL. To date, only seven players from Shepherd, including Bagent, have played in the league.

Getting this contract extension shows just how much the front office and coaching staff think of Bagent.

When the news of his contract extension was announced at the end of practice on Wednesday, his teammates were excited for him as well.

“It means everything. It means the world. A lot of high-level people in and around this building. So, for them to think the same of me, it means a lot and it feels good just because it’s been so much work going into it. So, that makes it just that much sweeter,” Bagent said. “It’s good to know that the people up-top got my back. But, it’s even better to know that the dudes that we’re out there fighting with, that the love is there with them too. So, it means the world.”

Although he is only going into his third season, Bagent has shown the talent to be a starting quarterback in this league someday. That is something that most likely will not happen in Chicago, as Caleb Williams is expected to be the starting quarterback.

However, Bagent explained that the coaching staff and the love the city of Chicago has shown him factored into his decision to sign this extension.

“Part of the reason why I decided to stay is because of how good of a job I believe this offensive staff does and the standard that they hold everyone to,” Bagent said. “I am extremely grateful for how the city’s taken me in, and it’s the same way the other way around. I’ve definitely grown accustomed to the city of Chicago. It is my second home at this point. I am very comfortable when I walk around anywhere that I go. But, just like any support, it’s greatly appreciated and it doesn’t go unnoticed.”

Whenever a player gets a big contract, there is always the question of what they will spend it on.

However, Bagent stayed true to his character as he prioritized taking care of his family with this extension, especially because he is going to become a father.

“I got a little baby girl on the way, so I’m not really trying to buy (anything) too crazy tight now,” Bagent said. “I’m just trying to get ready for that and with this whole deal getting down, it’s just right on time.”