The Chicago Bears have added depth to their quarterback lineup by bringing in Austin Reed, a record-setting quarterback from Western Kentucky, as a potential backup for their No. 1 overall pick, Caleb Williams.
This decision not only highlights the Bears’ commitment to building a robust team but also acknowledges the unpredictable nature of the NFL, where having a reliable backup can sometimes be as crucial as having a star starter.
Austin Reed’s Journey to the Chicago Bears
While Caleb Williams grabs the headlines as the future of the franchise, Austin Reed’s journey to the Bears is a story of perseverance and potential. Despite throwing for over 14,000 yards across three different schools during his college career, Reed found himself undrafted, overlooked by teams perhaps due to concerns about his arm strength and his aggressive, gunslinger-type approach to the game.
However, his ability to see the field and make quick decisions has earned him a spot as an undrafted free agent (UDFA) with Chicago.
A new chapter begins 🐻⬇️ pic.twitter.com/aSDE2DrC7E
— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) April 30, 2024
The history of the NFL is filled with stories of backup quarterbacks stepping up in crucial moments — from Nick Foles leading the Philadelphia Eagles to a Super Bowl victory in 2017 to Jeff Hostetler’s heroics for the New York Giants in 1990. These examples underscore the importance of depth in the quarterback position.
The Bears’ decision to bring in Reed is a nod to this strategy. As it stands, Tyson Bagent may be the primary backup to Williams, but Reed’s impressive collegiate stats make a compelling case for Chicago to consider carrying three quarterbacks into the season.
Opportunity Awaits For Austin Reed
For Reed, joining the Bears represents a significant opportunity. While his transition from college to the NFL carries certain risks due to his playing style, his keen field awareness and ability to react to defenses are valuable assets.
Training camp will be his proving ground, as it is for many undrafted players who have gone on to make a mark in the league. Even if Reed doesn’t secure the backup quarterback spot immediately, he could find valuable playing time on the practice squad, where he can continue to develop his skills.
Beyond Quarterback Duties
The journey of an undrafted player like Austin Reed is never straightforward. While he aims to secure a place as a quarterback, the versatility and determination he brings could open other pathways onto the team roster. Reed’s story is a reminder that in the NFL, adaptability and resilience can often lead to unexpected opportunities.
As the Bears gear up for the new season, all eyes will be on Caleb Williams as the face of the franchise’s future. However, the inclusion of Austin Reed may prove to be an equally strategic move, providing the Bears with not just depth, but a potential game-changer who could one day step up when needed most.
