Bears rookie wide receiver scores 97-yard touchdown in NFL preseason debut
Zavion Thomas Impresses in Preseason Debut, Catches 97‑Yard Touchdown for Bears
Chicago – In a preseason contest against the Tennessee Titans, Chicago Bears rookie wide receiver Zavion Thomas made a splash on the very first play of his NFL career. The former Mississippi State and LSU standout, a third‑round pick, hauled in a 97‑yard touchdown from quarterback Tyson Bagent that set the tone for an explosive debut.
The game began with the Titans’ opening drive ending in a punt, forcing the Bears to start deep in their own territory. As the first offensive series unfolded, Bagent found Thomas executing a double move that pulled his defender off the line, giving the rookie room to stretch and catch a pass that flew into the end zone. Thomas then carried the ball back into the end zone on a 97‑yard play, the longest reception of his preseason.
“I think that was Zavion Thomas’ very first play in the NFL, so greatest start in NFL history,” Bagent said after the game, according to the Bears’ official website.
Thomas finished the game with five receptions for 140 yards, a touchdown, and additional contributions on special teams. He returned a kickoff for 22 yards and a punt for 39 yards, adding 181 yards in total offense and showcasing his versatility.
“It felt amazing,” Thomas reflected. “Just the preparation (I) put into it, it’s something I expected. I appreciate my teammates and also thank God for the opportunity.”
Chicago’s roster is still shaping up for the regular season. Thomas is projected to sit behind veteran wide‑receiver Kalif Raymond on the depth chart, with teammates Luther Burden III and Rome Odunze also positioned as primary targets for rookie quarterback Caleb Williams. If Thomas continues to generate the type of play‑making moments seen against Tennessee, he could become a key weapon for the young offense.
The preseason game took place on Saturday, with the Bears hosting the Titans. While the result of the contest is not the focus here, Thomas’ performance has already sparked excitement among Bears fans and analysts alike.
As the Bears prepare for the upcoming regular season, the emergence of Thomas may shift the dynamic of the receiving corps. With a strong kickoff and punt returner as well, the rookie’s all‑purpose skill set could give the Bears a strategic advantage in both the passing and special‑teams departments.
In the weeks ahead, coaches and scouts will watch to see if Thomas can sustain the high level of production demonstrated on that first play. If he can keep making explosive plays, he will not only secure his spot on the roster but also give Caleb Williams an additional reliable target as the Bears look to build a competitive offense.
