Chicago Bears rookie accepts punishment during OTAs

Imagn Images

Chicago Bears rookie accepts punishment during OTAs

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Jordan Sigler | Last updated May 28, 2026 7:32 PM ET

The Chicago Bears started practices for OTAs on Wednesday, and the team is setting the standard early this spring.

Last year, players noticed that new head coach Ben Johnson and his staff were much more intense than what was allowed to take place under Matt Eberflus. Johnson yelled at his players for making mistakes during practice, including veterans like Cole Kmet.

On Thursday, the Bears kept up the intensity. Per Zack Pearson, first-round pick Dillon Thieneman had a chance to make an interception during a drill, but dropped the ball. The rookie safety accepted his punishment, doing pushups.

Thieneman wasn’t the only rookie making noticeable plays on Thursday. Third-round wide receiver Zavion Thomas showed his speed, hauling in a deep pass from Caleb Williams during a 7-on-7 drill with Tyrique Stevenson in coverage.

“OTA practice in the books here on Thursday,” Pearson posted on X. “Caleb Williams had a nice throw on the run off balance deep to Rome Odunze. Austin Booker came off the edge and got pressure forcing Williams out of the pocket.

“During 7 on 7, Williams hit rookie Zavion Thomas deep down the left sideline. He beat Stevenson. Dillon Thieneman had a chance for an INT but dropped it. He then did pushups.”

The Chicago Bears rookies are getting chances

Louisiana State Tigers wide receiver Zavion Thomas (0) celebrates with his teammates after scoring a touchdown against the Vanderbilt Commodores during the second half at FirstBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images

Some around the NFL criticized the Bears for taking Thomas in the third round, as he was thought to be more of a Day 3 player. Chicago liked the former LSU receiver’s speed.

Thomas could become a returner for special teams, but the Bears are giving him a chance to make plays on offense early during OTAs. He could wind up earning the WR3 job after DJ Moore was traded to the Buffalo Bills.

As for Thieneman, the young safety will be expected to start as a safety in Week 1. He was praised for his ability to always be around the football during his time at Oregon.

Thieneman was around the ball for a chance to make a pick on Thursday, but he’ll have to work on finishing the play and making turnovers, which is at the heart of defensive coordinator Dennis Allen’s scheme.

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

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