Bears That Are Primed for a Breakout Season

Every year, teams have players who exceed their expectations. These breakout players can help shape how the season goes. The Bears have made many drastic changes since last offseason, and the talent has been completely overhauled. However, it is not only the new players that play a role in shaping the team's potential. Here are three of the players most primed to break out and alter the Bears’ season. 

Olamide Zaccheaus 

Olamide Zaccheaus had a solid 2024 season, where he recorded 45 catches for 506 yards and three touchdowns. While he may be entering the season as the third receiver due to the Bears’ improved list of weapons, he has the potential to exceed his past year. Throughout the preseason and training camp, Zacchaeus formed a strong connection with Caleb Williams. One of the clearest examples of this was his 36-yard touchdown reception against the Bills. If this connection carries over into the regular season, then it leaves the Bears in a strong spot, as it gives the teams four talented and capable wide receivers. He was a helpful part of the strong Washington offense. However, Ben Johnson has led one of the best offenses in the league the past few years, which means if Zacchaeus does continue his performance, he could carve out an important role. 

Tyrique Stevenson 

One of the most well-known guys who could be poised for a breakout season is Tyrique Stevenson. He has certainly proven his talent for the team. In his two years with the team, he has played 32 games, recording six interceptions and allowing a 58.7% completion rate. Unfortunately, Stevenson has not been able to fully focus on the game. His problems range from taunting mid-play on a game-losing Hail Mary to racking up penalties. The new and improved coaching staff is believed to have the discipline to fix these issues. Certainly, the team hopes he can pull it all together. The team has become extremely thin at the cornerback position, and if Stevenson can step up, then he can help create a strong cornerback trio with Jaylon Johnson and Kyler Gordon. 

Austin Booker

Austin Booker has quickly become a fan favorite due to his preseason performance. This performance has left many wondering if he could challenge for serious playing time. In the preseason, Booker led the league with four sacks. The fact that he is only 22 years old also shows that his best is still ahead of him. Unfortunately, Johnson reported that Booker will miss a few weeks due to the injury he suffered in the preseason. There is hope, though, that once he comes back, he will make the same explosive impact. Booker would give an explosive and athletic pass rusher, which is something the team could seriously use opposite of Montez Sweat. Once he returns and clears the rust, we could see him start to start to reach his full potential.