Film study: New Bears WR Zavion Thomas a pure speed threat
WCG’s lead draft analyst shares his thoughts on the Bears’ selection of Zavion Thomas.
Nov 22, 2025; Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA; LSU Tigers wide receiver Zavion Thomas (0) pushes away Western Kentucky Hilltoppers defensive back Dave Herard (17) during the second half at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images | Stephen Lew-Imagn Images With the No. 89 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, the Chicago Bears selected LSU wide receiver Zavion Thomas.
The Bears needed depth at the wide receiver position going into the draft. Teams usually carry six wide receivers on their 53-man roster, and their WR5 and WR6 were J. P.
Richardson and Maurice Alexander, respectively. Thomas projects as a competitor for playing time with the likes of Kalif Raymond and Jahdae Walker. The name of the game with Thomas is speed.
With a 4. 28 40-yard dash, he had the third-fastest 40-yard dash of any player at the Combine, as well as the second-fastest time for a wide receiver. Going into Day 3 of the 2026 NFL Draft, the Bears’ absence of reinforcements in their defensive line is a major concern.