Zavion Thomas is a name that's quickly gaining traction for the Chicago Bears, and this kid hasn't even played a single snap yet. Richard Hightower is a respected special teams coach in the NFL, and his recent comments on the 89th overall selection show just how much the young receiver is doing to stand out among his peers.
It's common knowledge at this point that Thomas possesses uncommon speed. Though many players that arrive in the NFL are uncommonly quick, it's notable that Hightower singled out Thomas. Hightower has been around many teams in his time around football, and he's worked with many different players.
Zavion Thomas is already thinking beyond his assignment
"I think that Zavion is a little bit more mature than most rookies that I've dealt with in the returner position. Doesn't mean that he won't make rookie mistakes, it doesn't mean any of that. It just means the way he carries himself, I think it's a lot easier for him to adjust and adapt than most rookies I've had so far... Most rookies just wanna know what their job is and make sure they're lined up in the right place. This kid is trying to help the team in more ways than just his job. So that's how he's more mature."Richard Hightower
For Hightower to claim a rookie player is one of the most mature he's ever seen is no small thing. Thomas has displayed a football IQ that certainly helps to exemplify himself to his coaches. For one to be a good returner, they need to understand return coverages and how they flow. Then they need to use that knowledge on the fly in real time game situations. It's not as easy as it looks when you see it every Sunday.
When a player asks all of the right questions and shows that his attention and understanding are where they're supposed to be, it allows a coach to really dig in and do what they're supposed to. With the departure of Devin Duvernay, the Bears should sit tight knowing they've filled the role with someone capable.
Thomas still has to prove that Hightower’s praise can translate into production when the games begin. If his maturity keeps pace with his speed, the Bears may have found a returner they can trust right away.
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