The Chicago Bears are wrapping up organized team activities this week ahead of veteran minicamp next week, and there's been a noticeable difference in Year 2 of the Ben Johnson era compared to this time last year.
It's been a much smoother operation for those players returning for their second season in Johnson's offense and Dennis Allen's defense. With OTAs underway, there have been plenty of standouts, especially on the offensive side of the ball, where quarterback Caleb Williams continues to shine, the young playmakers are showing out and one rookie continues to make headlines.
Following Wednesday's open practice, here are five standouts on offense, who should be integral to the success of the team in 2026.
Second-year wide receiver Luther Burden III is primed for a breakout year in 2026, and he continues to make plays during the offseason program. According to Clay Harbor, Burden "made a couple plays in tight coverage and continues to show up when he gets opportunities." Burden was also on the receiving end of quarterback Caleb Williams' best throw of the day, per Herb Howard. "With Jaylon Johnson tight in coverage, Caleb led Luther on the Crosser, allowing the speedy receiver to catch the ball in stride and continue to run after the catch."
Third-round rookie wide receiver Zavion Thomas has consistently been making plays during the offseason program, and it's not often he hasn't been mentioned among practice takeaways. According to Clay Harbor, Thomas made a couple of plays, where his speed was likely on display, and he's making a strong case as a rookie. Wrote Harbor: "It’s an uphill battle with Kalif Raymond and Jahdae Walker in that WR/returner competition, but he’s quick and had a nice catch today." According to Mark Carman, Thomas had the "catch of the day" from quarterback Tyson Bagent. "Impressive hands on out route where he was fighting to get open."
It's been a much smoother operation for those players returning for their second season in Johnson's offense and Dennis Allen's defense. With OTAs underway, there have been plenty of standouts, especially on the offensive side of the ball, where quarterback Caleb Williams continues to shine, the young playmakers are showing out and one rookie continues to make headlines.
Following Wednesday's open practice, here are five standouts on offense, who should be integral to the success of the team in 2026.
Second-year wide receiver Luther Burden III is primed for a breakout year in 2026, and he continues to make plays during the offseason program. According to Clay Harbor, Burden "made a couple plays in tight coverage and continues to show up when he gets opportunities." Burden was also on the receiving end of quarterback Caleb Williams' best throw of the day, per Herb Howard. "With Jaylon Johnson tight in coverage, Caleb led Luther on the Crosser, allowing the speedy receiver to catch the ball in stride and continue to run after the catch."
Third-round rookie wide receiver Zavion Thomas has consistently been making plays during the offseason program, and it's not often he hasn't been mentioned among practice takeaways. According to Clay Harbor, Thomas made a couple of plays, where his speed was likely on display, and he's making a strong case as a rookie. Wrote Harbor: "It’s an uphill battle with Kalif Raymond and Jahdae Walker in that WR/returner competition, but he’s quick and had a nice catch today." According to Mark Carman, Thomas had the "catch of the day" from quarterback Tyson Bagent. "Impressive hands on out route where he was fighting to get open."
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