Understandably, all of the Chicago Bears attention at the receiver position has gone to Zavion Thomas and the surprise role the rookie might earn. There is clearly a battle emerging with Thomas fighting with Kalif Raymond for a starting role. While Luther Burden and Rome Odunze appear cemented as the top two options at the position, expectations for Thomas have continued to rise. However, Thomas isn't the only offseason addition who has a chance to work his way into a surprise role.
While it is going to be a far less prevalent one, the Bears very quietly added a perfect weapon for Caleb Williams in speedster Scotty Miller. The veteran pass catcher has struggled to find consistent playing time in recent years and was forced to settle for a depth role with the Bears. One that has a chance to be far more impactful than expected at first glance.
The last time that Miller played with a quarterback with Williams' arm talent was with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with Tom Brady. Not only did Miller make an impact in the regular season, but had a memorable touchdown in the NFC Championship, utilizing his speed to get behind the defense and catch a buzzer-beating touchdown dime from Brady.
Bears Have a Chance to Find Surprise Contributions from Veteran Scotty Miller
Miller's best season with the Bucs saw the pass catcher offer 501 receiving yards and a trio of touchdown grabs. It is very much on the table that this is the version of the receiver that the Bears find with Williams having the arm to fit the ball into tight windows or deep with Miller finding consistent space due to his speed.
This isn't to argue that the veteran is going to be a star contributor or a primary option, but rather that the excitement around Thomas is covering up the potential impact. Miller has a chance to be a game-breaking option for the Bears and benefit from the fact that he isn't going to be a player that the opposing defense is putting their best coverage options on.
Not only does Chicago have a fearsome backfield duo, but the team has a treasure trove of options in Cole Kmet, Colston Loveland, Burden, and Odunze, all demanding the best coverage options. This paints a clear picture of how Miller can be utilized as a rotational piece that steps in and turns on the speed, and offers a surprise big play or underneath safety blanket.
No question, the late offseason signing has been overlooked and was a great addition for Ben Johnson's offense. One likely to reap unexpected benefits in a 2026 season that continues to build anticipation.
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