The Chicago Bears signed veteran corner Tre Flowers this past week in an effort to bring in experienced depth.
It made sense to attempt to find additional pieces for a defense still attempting to build a level of identity and consistency. However, things got off to a rocky start with Flowers laying out receiver Olamide Zaccheaus, according to Bears insider Brad Biggs.
Practice ended this morning with newly signed CB Tre Fowers putting a big hit on WR Olamide Zaccheaus.
— Brad Biggs (@BradBiggs) July 24, 2025
Zaccheaus was down for a bit before getting up. Camp gets physical and it's a grind but without pads on, I'm guessing this is the kind of play the #Bears hope to avoid.
The veteran receiver is expected to be a key offensive contributor, not a player you want to see dealing with an injury because of friendly fire. Yes, camp physicality is needed, but there are obvious lines fringe roster players can't cross if they are looking to make a splash.
Recent Bears Signing Making the Wrong Impression
Flowers is coming into camp already behind in every meaningful way. The corner needs to make an impact and prove his value in a reserve capacity. Chicago's starters are locked in; Flowers was brought in to compete for a special teams and depth spot. One that the veteran is only going to win if he makes an instant impression.
All of this adds up to the reasons behind Flowers refusing to pull his punches and laying out a key piece of the Bears' offense. While it is understandable, it is a bit misguided for a number of reasons.
Flowers didn't go toe-to-toe with a physical threat but laid a hard camp hit on an undersized speed option. Zaccheaus has made a career as an overlooked option who utilizes solid route-running and above-average speed to get open. Laying a hard hit on the smaller receiver isn't impressive or makes the impression Flowers was hoping for. Regardless, it is a story to keep an eye on in hopes that no lasting injuries were sustained for the Chicago receiver.
The Chicago corner started his career with the Seattle Seahawks before spending time with the Cincinnati Bengals, Atlanta Falcons, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Indianapolis Colts. At every stop, the common thread has been the veteran attempting to carve out a role as a depth option and special teams contributor. This is the same path Flowers is on with Chicago as the team begins to evaluate the bottom of its roster.
With this in mind, the first impression is far from ideal, even if the Bears are embracing a more physical defensive approach. A hard hit on an undersized receiver who plays a bigger role for the team than Flowers ever will is hardly a needle mover and remains a questionable decision.