The Bears will have a different backup QB than previously expected. 

The team shockingly released P.J. Walker on Sunday night. The veteran QB was thought to be a lock for the QB2 role after receiving $2M in guarantees this offseason. 

However, the veteran was simply outplayed in the preseason. Now, the Bears have a couple of options at backup QB that nobody expected.

UDFA Tyson Bagent has been one of the most surprising performers of the preseason. The rookie from D-II Shepherd University completed 69% of his passes this preseason for 156 yards. The rookie didn't have any TD passes, but he should've had at least one against the Bills. Tight end Stephen Carlson was wide-open in the end zone but couldn't maintain possession.

Nathan Peterman is best known for a miserable first half he had as a member of the Bills where he threw five interceptions in one half. However, Peterman was the best QB of the bunch for the Bears this preseason. Peterman completed 10/18 passes against the Colts for 115 yards and a TD. Perhaps most importantly, Peterman got through the preseason without throwing an interception. 

With the release of Walker, I would be shocked to see Peterman also get released. Relying on a UDFA out of a D-II school as the primary backup to Justin Fields seems unwise. Bagent impressed enough to earn a roster spot, but Peterman should be the backup due to his starting experience.

This position battle should have been open and shut. Instead, Walker gets $2M to be a camp body, and Peterman and Bagent could be looking at spots on the roster. 

Tracking Bears Roster Cuts

Keeping track of all Bears’ moves as the team cuts down to 53 players.

Featured image via © Matt Marton | 2023 Aug 26