The Chicago Bears have identified a new option to fill the No. 3 wide receiver spot and replace six-time Pro Bowler Keenan Allen for the 2025 NFL season.
NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reports that the Bears are signing former Washington Commanders wide receiver Olamide Zaccheaus for next season. Zaccheaus, who had a career-best performance in 2024, brings speed to the receiving corps and will be a valuable target for quarterback Caleb Williams.
In 2024, Zaccheaus posted career highs with 52 receptions for 551 yards and three touchdowns across the regular season and playoffs with the Commanders. He also showcased his speed, racking up 284 yards after the catch and demonstrating his sub-4.50-second 40-yard dash time.
The Bears needed additional depth at receiver for 2025. While starters D.J. Moore and Rome Odunze will return, veterans Keenan Allen and DeAndre Carter are exploring the free-agent market and would require new contracts to remain in Chicago.
Currently, Zaccheaus is expected to be the Bears’ No. 3 wide receiver, capable of playing both inside the slot and on the outside. However, the team’s strategy during the offseason—particularly in the upcoming NFL draft—could still alter this role.
Zaccheaus is a necessary addition for the Bears, who had depth concerns behind Moore and Odunze. With Collin Johnson and 2023 fourth-round pick Tyler Scott—who combined for just two catches in 2024—next in line, Zaccheaus provides a reliable veteran presence in head coach Ben Johnson’s new system.
The Bears are unlikely to stop at Zaccheaus. While they may not make a bigger free-agent splash, they will likely address the receiver position in the 2025 NFL draft, potentially adding more depth with a Day 2 or Day 3 pick. If head coach Johnson feels additional receiver talent is needed, they could draft multiple rookies.
Zaccheaus is the latest addition as the Bears have been active since the legal tampering period began on March 10. The team has signed several veterans, including center Drew Dalman, defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo, defensive tackle Grady Jarrett, and tight end Durham Smythe, while also making trades for guards Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson. The Bears have retained some of their own players, signing contract extensions with cornerback Josh Blackwell, linebacker Amen Ogbongbemiga, and safety Tarvarius Moore. Despite these moves, the Bears have roughly $22.1 million in cap space for 2025, though this doesn’t account for the contracts of Jarrett, Smythe, and Zaccheaus.
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