One day after the NFL began free agency in 2023, the Bears signed quarterback PJ Walker to a two-year, $2 million guarantee and touted the former Panthers reserve as the new No. 2 behind Justin Fields. Five months later, Chicago did it Walker releasedsetting the stage for naked rookie Tyson Bagent, a Division II Shepherd product, to open 2023 as a top backup.
Walker came with ties to coach Matt Eberflus and new No. 1 wide receiver DJ Moore, with whom he worked as a member of the Colts and Panthers, respectively. He also brought experience in the starting XI, having played 4-3 as an injured substitute for Carolina in 2020-2022. But the veteran, who also starred in the 2020 version of the XFL, completed less than 50 percent of his passes in an uneven preseason, prompting speculation he could be usurped by Bagent.
Freeing Walker will save the Bears just $150,000 while there is a $1.5 million salary cap, according to Over the Cap.
Bagent, 23, was a D-II phenom at Shepherd, surpassing 100 career touchdown passes and winning the 2021 Harlon Hill Trophy, awarded to the Division II MVP. Problems with mechanics and footwork were among the biggest criticisms of Bagent’s college exit, but the undrafted rookie displayed unusual moxie during the Bears’ extensive preseason work.
Barring Chicago enlisting outside help, such as unsigned former starter Carson Wentz, Bagent is on track to open his rookie season as Fields’ top reserve. Journeyman Nathan Peterman is also signed but it’s unclear if he will join the 53-man roster.