Every offseason, one rookie arrives with relatively modest expectations before quickly forcing coaches and teammates to take notice during training camp. For the Chicago Bears, that player could end up being Zavion Thomas.

From the "Monsters of the Midway" to the 2006 Super Bowl team and the 2018 unit led by Khalil Mack, the franchise has built its identity on toughness, physicality, and creating turnovers. Now, the Bears may finally have the foundation to return to that level.

Oct 11, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Texas Longhorns defensive back Malik Muhammad (5) celebrates after an interception during the game between the Texas Longhorns and the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images The Chicago Bears drafted cornerback Malik Muhammad out of Texas in the fourth round of the NFL Draft. Muhammad spent two and a half years at the outside corner position while also playing some nickel with the Longhorns. Muhammad