Free agency was defined mainly by five moves from the Chicago Bears. It started with two trades for guards Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson. Then they secured top center Drew Dalman on the market. Things concluded with the arrival of Dayo Odeyingbo and Grady Jarrett on the defensive line. For most fans, the action stopped there. All focus shifted to the NFL draft. In reality, the Bears weren't done. They made other notable moves to bolster the roster. One that probably should've been taken more seriously was signing wide receiver Olamide Zaccheaus.
The quick, nimble target had a productive season with the Washington Commanders last season, helping them reach the NFC championship. However, the team decided to trade for Deebo Samuel, leaving Zaccheaus without a home. Head coach Ben Johnson loves slot targets, so bringing him to Chicago wasn't a hard sell. That decision appears to be paying dividends. While everybody is focused on 2nd round pick Luther Burden, team insiders Adam Hoge and Adam Jahns revealed it's been Zaccheaus who has been earning the spotlight in spring practices.
The Chicago Bears seem to place heavy value on availability.
Talent-wise, Burden is more gifted than Zacchaeus. That much isn't difficult to discern. The issue is the rookie hasn't been on the field. Johnson runs a team built around earning your spot. He doesn't care where you were drafted. You're not seeing the field if you don't show that you deserve opportunities. Burden hasn't been available. The Chicago Bears have no idea what he can do in their offense yet. He's expected to return for the start of training camp. Unfortunately for him, it sounds like he's already trailing Zacchaeus. Not only has he not missed a practice since arriving in March, but he's making plays on the field. Coaches aren't inclined to play Burden immediately. This isn't a team in desperate need of wide receiver help. If they feel Zacchaeus is more prepared, he will line up alongside D.J. Moore and Rome Odunze.
