The Chicago Bears have not been able to do a deep dive evaluation of the quarterback position, as Justin Fields has been sidelined for multiple games due to a thumb injury. Stepping in to replace Fields is undrafted rookie Tyson Bagent, who entered in relief in Week 6 against the Minnesota Vikings. Bagent had started in each game since, including this Sunday against the New Orleans Saints.
Bagent did look solid early on in the game, highlighted by two touchdown passes in the first half and entering halftime with a 14-14 tie. But once the second half began, the wheels fell off, as Bagent threw two interceptions and lost a fumble. The Bears would go on to lose 24-17 to the Saints.
Before the game, there was debate about whether the team should continue moving forward with Bagent as the starting quarterback even if Fields is cleared to return. Well, Bears fans shared their thoughts during the game.
Bears fans give their thoughts on QB drama after Tyson Bagent's dud game vs. Saints
Bears social media had thoughts, but drawing out a clear and conclusive thoughtline is impossible. Right now, it would be impossible to represent the fanbase's opinion on the position with one specific angle.
Justin Fields watching Tyson Bagent throw 3 picks and blow the game pic.twitter.com/SRjq4ozwnL
ā Tommy Gahan (@tommysgahan) November 5, 2023
I really hope Justin Fields comes back against the Panthers and gets a MASSIVE ovation at Soldier Field.
ā Danny Parkins (@DannyParkins) November 5, 2023
Justin Fields plays this game we win easily. Nobody can convince me otherwise.
ā EJ šŗšø (@itsmine49) November 5, 2023
This isn't a Tyson Bagent vs. Justin Fields debate. Arguing for either one is a waste of time.
ā Johnathan Wood (@Johnathan_Wood1) November 5, 2023
This is a "the Bears don't have their 2024 starting QB on the roster" conversation.
The Tyson Bagent ride has been fun but Iām ready for Justin Fields to come back.
ā Matt Newton (@mattnewts) November 5, 2023
"I don't know how you can go back to Justin Fields" pic.twitter.com/TbwOWp1GZi
ā Salim (š is š§¬) (@Salim_BGhoops) November 5, 2023
Tyson Bagent just throwing dots to directly to the defense.
ā Bo Tilly ė³“ģ š°š·āš½ (@BoTilly) November 5, 2023
Butā¦Justin Fields was the problem? pic.twitter.com/UHmlnn2iCZ
Tyson Bagent has played really well for an undrafted rookie QB, he has a future on this team as the back-up QB at a minimum; however, you cannot avoid the fact that the main reason the Bears lost today is because he turned the ball over 4 times. Rookie QBs, its a ride #DaBears
ā Tony Daly (@Tony_Daly) November 5, 2023
We have no idea what the Bears have in Tyson Bagent. Looks to be at the very least an elite backup, if not a low-end starter (for now).
ā Dhruv Koul (@DhruvKoul) November 5, 2023
But if you're not impressed with the dude's poise and command in one of the toughest venues in the NFL, not sure what to tell you.
Entering the game, Bagent had been a mixed bag for the Bears. In his first official start, he led the Bears to a 30-12 win over the Las Vegas Raiders. But in Week 8, he lost 30-13 to the Los Angeles Chargers in primetime.
This Saturday in New Orleans, Bagent threw for 220 yards, two touchdowns, and three interceptions while completing 18-of-30 pass attempts. Bagent did pick up 70 rushing yards on eight carries but did have the lost fumble.
Bagent looked good in the first half, but the second half is one he and the Bears faithful would like to forget.
The Bears are in a position in which they need to evaluate their signal-calling position. They are nowhere near contending for a playoff spot and actually have strong odds to potentially pick first-overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. They need to determine if Fields is indeed the quarterback of the future. If they feel that won't be the case, they then would be able to select either Caleb Williams of the USC Trojans or Drake Maye of the North Carolina Tar Heels early on in the first round.
We'll see if Fields can return on a short week when the team plays the Carolina Panthers on Thursday night. If not, it will be Bagent starting under center once again.