Historically linked to Bagent, the Arizona Cardinals and Atlanta Falcons remain central to the conversation. The Cardinals reportedly signed Gardner Minshew to a one-year deal and are reportedly high on Ty Simpson from Alabama as a draft prospect, while the Falcons added quarterback Tua Tagovailoa on a league-minimum deal.
With Rodgers’ status still unclear, Steelers owner Art Rooney II has publicly acknowledged the possibility of a rapid resolution to the Rodgers situation, but there is no timeline. The uncertainty leaves Pittsburgh weighing whether to pursue a quarterback now or continue to search for a longer-term plan under center.
A trade for Bagent appears plausible under the right circumstances. He carries two more seasons on his contract for about $10 million total, and his limited regular-season exposure keeps his value from rising too quickly or crashing simply due to inexperience. Analysts suggest his value likely sits in the second- to third-round range rather than Day 3 or a first-round price.
For Chicago, a package around a Day 2 pick—while avoiding a top-tier asset—could be enticing if it accelerates a rebuild plan and provides a clear path to future depth at quarterback. Pittsburgh holds picks Nos. 53, 76, 85 and 99 on Day 2, offering multiple avenues to strike a deal that could be appealing to both sides.
In summary, Bagent’s trade value and the Steelers’ quarterback timeline could converge this weekend, potentially turning the Bears’ insurance asset into a measurable return while giving Pittsburgh a competitive pathway if Rodgers isn’t ready to return. The scenario remains contingent on Rodgers’ decision and how both teams value the steps needed to contend in 2026.
