WCG’s lead draft analyst looks at the Bears’ undrafted QB signing.
The Bears have signed Western Kentucky quarterback Austin Reed as an undrafted free agent.
Reed spent the last two seasons with the Hilltoppers, for whom he was an All-C-USA passer. Prior to throwing for 71 passing touchdowns and over 8,000 yards in that span, he was a standout quarterback for West Florida, earning himself a Division II All-American nomination for his performance.
After invitations to both the Shrine Bowl and the NFL Combine, Reed seemed like a decent bet to be drafted. However, with only 11 quarterbacks selected in the 2024 NFL Draft — with just 5 of them going after Round 1 — he ended up slipping into undrafted free agency. The Bears gave him a shot, and he now looks to battle with veteran free agent Brett Rypien for the third-string quarterback role behind No. 1 pick Caleb Williams and second-year backup Tyson Bagent.
I took to the tape to break down the Bears’ new undrafted quarterback signing.
THREAD: The #Bears signed an intriguing UDFA who could earn a roster spot in Western Kentucky QB Austin Reed.
— Jacob Infante (@jacobinfante24) April 27, 2024
The selling point with Reed is his arm strength.
He’s capable of delivering some impressive throws with a natural release and very good velocity behind them. #Bears pic.twitter.com/7W3qjrz7Hz
— Jacob Infante (@jacobinfante24) April 27, 2024
There are a handful of throws per game where Reed will wow you with his touch.
He’s shown the ability to hit his receivers in stride and deliver some dimes into tight windows, particularly against zone coverage. #Bears pic.twitter.com/EhsN0FzwPc
— Jacob Infante (@jacobinfante24) April 27, 2024
Reed was incredibly productive during his time in college.
He was a D2 All-American at West Florida in 2022 and an All-Conference USA at Western Kentucky. 15,594 passing yards and 149 passing TDs in 4 seasons. #Bears pic.twitter.com/Ztlezu3PGv
— Jacob Infante (@jacobinfante24) April 27, 2024
Reed has large hands, a well-built frame and impressive arm talent.
There’s some inconsistency, but his flashes of downfield touch are something else. #Bears pic.twitter.com/ymWMhWy8zE
— Jacob Infante (@jacobinfante24) April 27, 2024
I had a fringe draftable grade on Austin Reed because he’s an older QB prospect who forces throws to his first read too often.
He’s at least someone worth a practice squad spot. Wouldn’t surprise me if he ends up winning the QB3 job for the #Bears. pic.twitter.com/c3isHLXxhU
— Jacob Infante (@jacobinfante24) April 27, 2024
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