Former Bears QB hits new low in NFL return bid

Undrafted QB Austin Reed’s NFLbackstory with the Chicago Bears highlights the steep odds facing late-round signings, contrasting his brief early promise with a difficult pro outcome. After signing as an undrafted free agent from Western Kentucky, Reed briefly stood out in Bears preseason but never secured a QB2 role, ultimately not remaining with the team or its practice squad as Case Keenum, Miller Moss, and Caleb Williams’ competition shaped the 2025 depth chart. Reed shifted to the UFL with the Dallas Renegades, where he opened with a record-setting 376 passing yards and three touchdowns, yet his subsequent form deteriorated. He has since posted an alarming turnover rate, throwing seven interceptions to 13 TDs across six starts and completing only about 57% of his passes, raising serious questions about NFL viability despite his high-yardage totals and early success.

The Bears’ current quarterback situation remains centered on Caleb Williams and Tyson Bagent, with Keenum and Miller Moss in reserve. Williams has shown career efficiency concerns, including a sub-60% completion rate, impacted by a high number of drops from targets, though he’s known for protecting the football with relatively few interceptions. Reed’s inconsistent accuracy and high turnover count in the UFL significantly dampen any realistic NFL comeback risk, making a return unlikely unless he demonstrates dramatic improvement and consistency.

Key takeaways:
– Austin Reed moved from an promising preseason impact with the Bears to the UFL, where accuracy and turnover issues emerged.
– The Bears’ quarterback depth remains anchored by Caleb Williams and Tyson Bagent, with Keenum and Miller Moss as backups.
– Reed’s current NFL return prospects appear slim due to limited accuracy, high interceptions, and competition from established Bears reserves.