From a world champion arm wrestler to a devoted mother, Tyson’s parents built the foundation for his competitive spirit.
Tyson Jacob Bagent, born June 8, 2000, has risen from small-town beginnings in Martinsburg, West Virginia, to carving a place in the National Football League (NFL).
Now a quarterback for the Chicago Bears, Bagent’s story is one of perseverance and determination.
He began his football journey at Martinsburg High School, where he passed for 7,800 yards and 112 touchdowns, earning the title of West Virginia Gatorade Player of the Year in 2017.
Choosing to play at Division II Shepherd University, Bagent quickly became the face of the Rams’ football program.
A five-year starter, he rewrote record books, setting the NCAA all-division record for career touchdown passes (159) and amassing 17,034 passing yards.
His 2021 season was particularly remarkable—he threw for 5,000 yards and 53 touchdowns, earning the prestigious Harlon Hill Trophy as the best player in Division II football.
Undrafted in 2023, Bagent signed with the Chicago Bears and soon made history as the first undrafted Division II rookie quarterback since 1950 to start an NFL game.
His grit and work ethic impressed coaches and teammates alike, eventually earning him a two-year, \$10 million contract extension in 2025.
Bagent’s journey shows that belief, hard work, and resilience can overcome long odds.
The Success of Tyson Bagent Reflects the Support of His Parents, Travis and Casey
Behind Tyson Bagent’s success are his parents, Travis and Casey Bagent, whose influence shaped his competitive drive and character.
His father, Travis Bagent, is a legendary arm wrestler known as “The Beast.”
With 28 world championships to his name, Travis transformed what began as a hobby into a lucrative career, earning international recognition and a reputation as one of the sport’s greatest figures.
Beyond arm wrestling, Travis owns a CrossFit gym and played a central role in instilling a relentless work ethic in Tyson.
Tyson often credits his father for teaching him discipline, competitiveness, and the belief that success comes from outworking others.
His mother, Casey Bagent, is a Shepherd University graduate and a steadfast supporter of her son.
Known for her quiet strength, Casey has often spoken about Tyson’s perseverance, recalling moments when he wanted to give up as a child but ultimately found the resolve to keep going.
During Tyson’s rise at Shepherd, she publicly praised his dedication and character, emphasizing the family’s deep pride in his accomplishments.
Together, Travis and Casey created a supportive yet competitive household where Tyson learned resilience, humility, and determination—qualities that continue to define his career today.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- In his very first college game as a freshman in 2018, Tyson threw for 518 yards and three touchdowns, setting school records for completions, attempts, and passing yards.
- Tyson finished his high school career with 7,800 passing yards and 112 touchdowns, making him one of West Virginia’s most decorated prep quarterbacks.
- Before committing to Division II Shepherd University, he was recruited by Division I FCS schools Robert Morris and Albany, but chose to stay close to home.
