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Bears Rookie Stock Report: Rookie Class Shines in Week 7 Win Over Patrios
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- Bears Rookie Stock Report: Rookie Class Shines in Week 7 Win Over Patrios
The Chicago Bears earned a 30-24 victory over the New England Patriots in Week 7 , improving their record while getting contributions from several young players. While some rookies continued to establish themselves as key pieces of the defense, others struggled to make the most of their opportunities on offense. With the season progressing, each performance provides another indication of which first-year players are trending in the right direction.
Following Thursday night's win, several Bears rookies saw their stock rise thanks to impactful performances on both sides of the ball. Others have areas to clean up as they look to earn more playing time.
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Here's a look at which Chicago rookies boosted their stock and which ones need to respond heading into Week 8.
STOCK UP: Malik Muhammad
Oct 11, 2026; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; Green Bay Packers wide receiver Christian Watson (9) makes a catch defended by Chicago Bears cornerback Malik Muhammad II (24) during the third quarter at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-Imagn Images
Muhammad had a strong performance Thursday night. He faced plenty of one-on-one opportunities and looked much better than he did in Week 5, joining the rest of the secondary in showing improvement.
He recorded a pass breakup, allowed just one reception on three targets, and contributed to the run defense with two run stuffs . The fourth-round pick continues to build on his rookie season with encouraging performances each week.
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STOCK DOWN: Zavion Thomas
Oct 11, 2026; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; Green Bay Packers linebacker Nick Niemann (31) tackles Chicago Bears wide receiver Zavion Thomas (13) on a long kickoff return during game Sunday at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Dan Powers USAToday Network via IMAGN images
Thomas nearly matched his offensive snap count with his penalty total. Although he has flashed playmaking ability on his limited targets, he needs to improve his execution in the running game.
A week after recording a career-high three receptions on three targets, Thomas failed to catch a pass Thursday night. His holding penalties, which wiped out several big runs, won't help his case for a larger role.
STOCK UP: Dillon Thieneman
Oct 22, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye (10) is knocked out of bounds by Chicago Bears safety Dillon Thieneman (31) during the first half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images
Thieneman has been a home-run pick for the Bears. Although he and the rest of Chicago's secondary struggled in Week 5, the rookie safety has remained a steady presence and a force on defense. He seemed to be everywhere Thursday night.
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Thieneman recorded three pressures, a sack, four tackles, and a run stuff against the Patriots . His ability to contribute as both a pass rusher and run defender continues to make him a valuable piece of Chicago's defense.
STOCK UP: Sam Roush
Oct 4, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; New York Jets cornerback Azareye'h Thomas (1) trips up Chicago Bears tight end Sam Roush (87) during the third quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images
Roush has quietly developed into a reliable run-blocking weapon at tight end. He hasn't received many opportunities in the passing game this season, but he has made the most of his snaps as a blocker. Following Cole Kmet's season-ending injury, Roush should have more opportunities to contribute.
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Roush earned a solid 72.9 run-blocking grade Thursday night , showcasing his value in the ground game. With additional opportunities potentially ahead, he will have a chance to earn more playing time and establish himself as a dependable contributor to Chicago's offense.
This story was originally published by Athlon on Oct 24, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
