The Chicago Bears fielded several rookies during their 59-37 win over the Carolina Panthers in Week 1, and none of them had a bigger day than safety Dillon Thieneman, but a few big plays may give him a run for his money. From Malik Muhammad's first career interception to D'Andre Swift's three touchdown day, the Bears had a big offensive day, and it's worth looking at the impact that the 2026 rookies may have had on the day.
Dillon Thieneman, Safety
It would be criminal to have a piece dedicated solely to the Bears' rookies and not discuss Dillon Thieneman. He's the Bears' lone first round draft pick from this season, in much the same position Colston Loveland was a season ago. Thieneman played all 68 defensive snaps, collected ten total tackles on the day, one QB hit and a pass defended. It was a quality start from the former Oregon Duck, and fans are hopeful that his skill is repeatable.
Logan Jones, Center
Garrett Bradbury may have gotten the start at Center, but that doesn't mean Logan Jones can't find ways to meaningfully make a difference on the team. Though he never logged any snaps at Center, Jones did take nine special teams snaps, showing his dedication and willingness to do whatever it takes to help the Bears.
Sam Roush, Tight End
Sam Roush was the surprise third round selection from the Bears, and though he may not have recorded a catch or target, Roush collected 12 offensive snaps. May expect Roush to be the third man on the depth chart, where he'll primarily serve as a blocker behind Colston Loveland and Cole Kmet.
Malik Muhammad II, Cornerback
Muhammad had to be the most exciting rookie on the field behind Thieneman. He frequently held the tough job of covering Tetairoa McMillan, and there were several occasions where he beat him. He even managed his first career interception, a very promising showing from the young corner.
Zavion Thomas, Wide Receiver
Thomas officially participated in the game as a substitute, but given that he had no targets or returns, it's difficult to asses his impact upon the game. Given Thomas' performance during the preseason and the immense speed he showed, many expected Thomas to have at least a small hand in the game plan. Watch for Thomas to be an ace in the hole in the future, as the Bears scored 59 points independent of Thomas' help.
Jordan Van Den Berg, Defensive Tackle
Van Den Berg recorded a handful of snaps on the defense, though he didn't have any meaningful impact that would show up on the score sheet. He's a name to watch down the line, without a doubt. The more Dennis Allen gets Van Den Berg on the line, the more dangerous he can become to opposing offenses.
Keyshaun Elliott, Linebacker
Elliott may not have recorded any snaps on defense yet, but he still made his presence known on special teams. Though he didn't record any individual stats, it's important to remember that it's only Week 1, and not every rookie is going to pop off every single week.
Beau Gardner, Long Snapper
Long Snapper is one of the most underrated jobs on the football field, but it's always incredibly clear when a team has a bad one. Gardner, as a rookie, was someone that Coach Johnson thought they would target, as it's common for defenses to exploit any weakness it can. Gardner stood up to the pressure well, even recording a tackle assist.
Skyler Thomas, Safety
Thomas gets his opportunity at Safety as direct result of Coby Bryant's injury. With Bryant out for the first few months of the season, Thomas has an opportunity to raise his stock and show that he has what it takes to be seated on an NFL roster. As the only player on this list to have been an undrafted free agent, Thomas has an extra step to showing he belongs, but recording a special teams tackle assist as he did helps his case.
It may have only been Week 1, but the Bears' rookies have a long road in front of them, and there's plenty of football along the way to prove themselves. The important part now is pacing themselves and understanding that their impact on the game often comes in their indirect contributions.
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