Most of the starting jobs on offense are accounted for, aside from two on the offensive line. However, there are plenty of rotational backup roles that are up for grabs. None is more important than the third wide receiver spot. D.J. Moore’s trade to Buffalo and Olamide Zaccheaus signing with Atlanta have left the depth chart behind Rome Odunze and Luther Burden uncertain. It looked like free agent Kalif Raymond would slot into that position when he arrived, but the Chicago Bears chose to give him some competition by drafting Zavion Thomas.
The two players share a lot in common, which is why it wasn’t surprising the Bears added them. This coaching staff loves making players uncomfortable by reminding them that it’s unwise to feel safe on this roster. Though both players are likely to see action this season, only one will get primary snaps. That is why training camp will be imperative for both. Who will emerge on top? Let’s explore and find out.
Why Zavion Thomas could win
The Bears drafted Thomas in the 3rd round for a reason. This isn’t some late-round flier that they hope might fill out the back end of the depth chart. Head coach Ben Johnson and wide receivers coach Antwaan Randle El saw something in him that others didn’t. His blazing 4.28 speed is one place to start. It certainly shows up on tape, with him able to take short throws and turning them into long gains. That is something Johnson covets highly in his offense. Yards after the catch can’t be overstated.
What stands out the most about Thomas is his strength. You wouldn’t think that his 5’10”, 190 lbs frame had much power in it, but he constantly showed an ability to stay on his feet through multiple tackle attempts. It is why he is such a good returner. Devin Hester was the same way. Lastly, don’t underestimate his ability as a route runner. He isn’t completely polished yet, but there are plenty of signs that he understands how to do it at a high level. When you mix that kind of speed with good route running, you get productive players.
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Why Kalif Raymond could win
The irony in all of this is that Zavion Thomas and Kalif Raymond are pretty much the exact same player. Both are undersized wide receivers who are blazing fast and thrive in the return game. Raymond has the advantage of having done both at a quality level for several years. Though in his 30s, he remains a major factor in the return game and can still make an impact on offense when given opportunities. He just didn’t get many during his final season in Detroit because of their deep roster. We do know one thing: he liked playing in Johnson’s offense.
| Year | Receptions | Yards | Average | Touchdowns |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 47 | 616 | 13.1 | 0 |
| 2023 | 35 | 489 | 14.0 | 1 |
| 2024 | 17 | 215 | 12.6 | 2 |
Raymond has a big advantage in that regard. He already has deep familiarity with the Bears’ system and the responsibilities expected of receivers in it. That should help him limit his mistakes in training camp, giving him more chances to stand out. He still has plenty of speed and knows how to work from the slot. Add his value as a locker room leader, and you can understand the appeal.
The winner: Raymond
This is a case of trust. Chicago brought Raymond in because the head coach knows and trusts him. Johnson knows what the receiver can do and how to deploy him. His game is already well-established, and he should be able to contribute immediately. Thomas has loads of ability. There is no question that the Bears will find ways to get him on the field during the season. However, he will need time to absorb the offense and learn its many requirements of wide receivers beyond just running routes. That separation between the two is what will decide it.
