Even Bears’ Ben Johnson is impressed with Zavion Thomas’ big-play ability

Ben Johnson had immense praise for rookie receiver Zavion Thomas following the Bears’ preseason finale against the Titans on Saturday night.
Chicago fans are going to have excitement with Zavion Thomas after Ben Johnson’s comments about the rookie following the Bears’ preseason finale against the Tennessee Titans on Saturday night.
Thomas is preparing for the first year of his NFL career following a solid collegiate career at Mississippi State and LSU. Chicago witnessed his talents, selecting him in the third round of the 2026 draft.
Safe to say he is making the most of his chances in the receiving corps this preseason. Thomas dominated against Tennessee, making five catches for 140 yards and a touchdown. His longest was an incredible 97-yard touchdown reception that wowed attending fans.
Johnson reflected on Thomas’ performance after the game. He noted the rookie’s explosiveness, believing that will elevate Chicago’s offense to a great level should he stay on the right path.
“He’s had a knack for making big plays, and getting him back out after his injury was huge to give him a taste of real football. We don’t want the production going to his head, wide receivers coach Antwaan Randle-El and Isaiah Ford are on him constantly about the details, but it’s a great start,” Johnson said.
Ben Johnson on Zavion Thomas’ Growth and Performance Tonight:
“He’s had a knack for making big plays, and getting him back out after his injury was huge to give him a taste of real football. We don’t want the production going to his head, wide receivers coach Antwaan Randle-El… pic.twitter.com/fJRr2LLhfu
— BearsMuse (@ChiBearsMuse) August 30, 2026
How Zavion Thomas, Bears played against Titans
Ben Johnson will look forward to Zavion Thomas’ growth on the roster. In the meantime, the Bears have a promising campaign waiting for them in 2026.
Chicago ended the preseason with a 2-1 record, taking down the Titans by a 24-15 score. Both teams traded blows but the visitors had bigger plays with the touchdown highlights to gain the upper hand.
Roschon Johnson had a solid display in the run game, racking up 15 carries for 40 yards and a touchdown. Besides Thomas, Maurice Alexander caught seven passes for 50 yards and a touchdown.
The Bears will seek to improve upon their 11-6 record from the previous season. They also hope to repeat as NFC North champions for the first time since 2005–2006.
Chicago sees the 2026 campaign begin on the road, taking on the Carolina Panthers. That matchup will commence on Sept. 13 at 1 p.m. ET.
Chicago fans are going to have excitement with Zavion Thomas after Ben Johnson’s comments about the rookie following the Bears’ preseason finale against the Tennessee Titans on Saturday night. Thomas is preparing for the first year of his NFL career following a solid collegiate career at Mississippi State and LSU.