Tyson Bagent’s magical week continues. Two days after signing a two-year, $10 million contract extension with the Bears, Bagent has thrown a pair of second-half touchdown passes against the Chiefs, connecting first with running back Royce Freeman for a 2-yard score, then finding tight end Joel Wilson from 3 yards out. Bagent now has four preseason touchdown tosses in what has been an encouraging preseason.
Bagent has been aware all through training camp that August is his performance month, his only promised chance for game action before he settles into a backup role behind Caleb Williams. Last season, with Williams starting all 17 games, Bagent played in just four contests – in garbage time against the Panthers, Jaguars, 49ers and Vikings. He threw only two passes – both completions totaling 11 yards. The Bears are confident in what Bagent could offer if needed in an emergency. But in an ideal world, he won’t be needed much after Friday night. Still, his ability to lead seven touchdown drives during the preseason is a positive sign.