The Chicago Bears will start Tyson Bagent in the preseason opener, and the quarterback is expected to get an extended run. With the increasing possibility that Caleb Williams isn't going to play in the preseason at all it is a great opportunity for Bagent to make a case that he is deserving of a starting role in a new landing spot. Whether it is in the 2026 season or the following year, it makes a great deal of sense for Bagent to become a trade chip based on the stability of Williams.
Bagent is not as physically gifted as Williams, but developing under Ben Johnson has shown signs of being a starting option for the right fit. With this in mind, let's look at three teams that should be keeping a close eye on Bagent's preseason performance.
1. Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons already are heading into the regular season with Tua Tagovailoa and Michael Penix Jr. dealing with injuries. Both starters are injury prone and have question marks about whether or not they will prove to be franchise options. Atlanta has a good enough roster to prevent from landing a top pick and few clear options expected to hit the market at the position. With this mind, Atlanta should at least monitor Bagent in hopes of finding a potential trade target.
Whether it is in the following offseason or adding Bagent as an answer to injuries, this is the landing spot that seems the most likely if the backup does become a potential starting option with a strong preseason performance.
2. New York Jets
The Jets remain desperate to find an answer at the position after spending two underwhelming seasons with Aaron Rodgers and last year with Justin Fields. Geno Smith reunited with the franchise and is now going to be given another starting opportunity despite how underwhelming things were a season ago. New York has to always be counted among a potential landing spots for any starting quarterback options.
Bagent having a strong preseason would at least invite a discussion. Smith is an aging option coming off a tough season making it clear that at best it is going to be a short-term answer.
3. Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals have Gardener Minshew, Jacoby Brissett, and Carson Beck as the team's 2026 starting options. None of this trio inspires confidence and leaves obvious reason for the Cardinals to consider Bagent if the backup is able to put together a strong case that he deserves starting consideration.
No question, the Cardinals don't have much hope with their current quarterback options. The franchsie has an impressive group of playmakers that Bagent could potentially elevate if he can take the next leap.
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