(Note: This is the first part of a two-part story)
SHEPHERDSTOWN, W.Va. — Tyson Bagent played in front of large crowds at Ram Stadium for four seasons. Tuesday’s audience was smaller than a typical gameday but nearly each NFL team was represented at Shepherd University Pro Day to get an up close and personal look at the former Martinsburg High School quarterback.
“A lot of people showed up. My guys on the script did what they were supposed to do. I did what I was supposed to do. And I felt good. I felt smooth. I felt calm and at peace. So it was a good day,” Bagent said.
Division II Pro Days don’t usually generate this type of interest, but Bagent has been a the NFL radar for a while now. He competed in the Senior Bowl and the NFL Combine in February. Bagent did not participate in timed drills on Tuesday but he went through an extensive throwing session, showcasing his mobility and accuracy.
“I don’t think there is anything glaring in my game that needs to be improved. There’s not anything glaring in my game that I don’t need to work on anymore. So it is just constant work. Keep stacking wood, carrying water every day and staying ready and improving as a whole every day.”
Four of Bagent’s Shepherd teammates joined him in the drills, affording his fellow Rams a large contingent of teams to showcase their skills in front of.
“I try my best to get old receivers that may still be trying to get a chance and putting as many people on as I can. I have somewhat of a platform so I try to bring as many people on that ship with me as I can. It makes me feel good. They did a great job too. So it all worked out.”
Football is the ultimate team sport. But after Shepherd’s season ended in the NCAA semifinals in December, Bagent has had to work independently to make improvements in all aspects of his game.
“I think it is a lot less worrisome. I think you try to make up for people on the team that maybe are not doing what they are supposed to do or slacking in a sense. As long as I stay on top of what I am supposed to do, I usually feel pretty good about everything going on.”
Bagent entered the NCAA Transfer Portal after his junior season. But after conversations with Division I programs, Bagent decided to return to Shepherd for his senior season. He posted comparable stats in 2022 to further raise his professional profile.
“I don’t know if it boosted my stock. I just made the best decision for myself and my family. I think in hindsight, it all worked out for the betterment of everyone. I feel good with the decision that I made. I had no clue all this would happen because of it. I guess that is just a bonus. But I feel good with the decision I made.”