Bears Make Tyson Bagent the Backup

Veteran QB Nathan Peterman had his contract terminated on Wednesday, making undrafted rookie Tyson Bagent the backup to Justin Fields.

In a move that signals the perceived readiness of Bears rookie quarterback Tyson Bagent, the team terminated the contract of veteran backup Nathan Peterman.

Peterman had been waived by the Bears at the end of preseason and then brought back as a backup ahead of Bagent for the first two games because of what coach Matt Eberflus said was the experience factor.

It's possible after two weeks of the season they are comfortable with the idea of Bagent entering a game if something happens to Fields.

Bagent, the undrafted player from Division II Shepherd, stood out in preseason for his ability to get the ball out in time and maintain the rhythm of the passing game.

It wouldn't be shocking if Peterman returned to the team on the practice squad. They operated that way last year with Peterman as the third QB but not on the regular roster. However, they could also add another quarterback if they feel Bagent is well-versed enough in the offense to operate it in a game.

The Bears also signed offensive lineman Aviante Collins to their active roster after putting injured tackle Braxton Jones on injured reserve, and replaced Collins on the practice squad by signing offensive lineman Austen Pleasants.

Pleasants, 26, played in one game for Carolina in 2021 and spent last year with the Los Angeles Chargers practice squad. The Chargers released him from their practice squad Sept. 12.

 Injury Report

The Bears had slot cornerback Josh Blackwell at practice Wednesday on a limited basis after he missed last week's game with a hamstring injury. The Bears are without starter Kyler Gordon at slot cornerback and as a result of his absence and Blackwell's, they played practice squad player Greg Stroman at nickel back. 

Safety Eddie Jackson, who left the game Sunday with a foot injury, was unable to practice Wednesday due to the injury.

Also missing practice entirely due to illness was starting center Lucas Patrick. 

Wide receiver Darnell Mooney, who also left Sunday's game, has knee soreness after banging knees with a Tampa Bay player, but practiced Wednesday on a limited basis.

Guard Nate Davis returned to practice on Wednesday after missing Sunday's game following a death in his family.

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