Chicago Bears Draft WR Zavion Thomas at No. 89: Instant Grade and Analysis

The Chicago Bears made their final selection of Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft, choosing LSU wide receiver Zavion Thomas with the 89th overall pick.

Wide receiver was considered a sleeper early-round need for the Bears after the team traded D.J. Moore to the Buffalo Bills. Second-year wideout Jahdae Walker and free-agent signing Kalif Raymonrd will help fill the void, but Thomas presented Ben Johnson and the Chicago Bears' offense with solid playmaking upside.

Thomas blazed a 4.28 40-yard dash and profiles as a raw and still developing player, but in an offense led by Johnson, that kind of speed kills.

Thomas (5'10", 190 pounds) started seven games for LSU in 2025 and finished the season with 41 catches for 488 yards and four touchdowns.

While not overly productive, Zavion Thomas profiles more as an offensive weapon for this Bears team than a pure wide receiver. Still, if he continues to develop as a route runner, there's a chance he could prove to be more than just a gadget player.

Unfortunately, this pick feels like another reach by GM Ryan Poles. The Bears have now spent three of their first four selections on offense despite having bigger needs along the defensive line.

It's highly unlikely Chicago will find an edge rusher on Day 3 who's capable of challenging Austin Booker for meaningful reps, but they'll have no choice but to take a few swings.

Speed will always be a premium for NFL teams, and the Chicago Bears added an incredible amount of it with Thomas. I just don't see him producing enough on-field value to justify a third-round selection.

GRADE: C