Bears Rookie Stock Report: Dillon Thieneman, Malik Muhammad Rise Before Buccaneers Game

The Chicago Bears are preparing for a Week 9 matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and their rookie class continues to be an important part of the team’s development. With the season nearing its midpoint, some of Chicago’s first-year players have begun to establish themselves, while others are still working to earn more opportunities.

From defensive playmakers making an impact in the secondary to a rookie tight end who could see his role expand, there are several reasons for optimism surrounding Chicago’s rookie class. However, not all first-year players experience the same level of success.

Here’s a look at which Bears rookies saw their stock rise or fall heading into Week 9 against Tampa Bay.

Dillon Thieneman: Stock Up

October 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 certainly had some tough rookie moments in 2026. However, he played at a high level for a rookie, considering the responsibilities the Bears entrusted him with. Chicago moved Thieneman all over this defense.

This season, Thieneman has two sacks and one interception, and he’s given up just a 59.1% completion rate.

Sam Roush: Take stock

September 28, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Kalif Raymond (14) celebrates with tight end Sam Roush (87) after scoring a touchdown against the Philadelphia Eagles in the second half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images

With the loss of Cole Kmet, the Bears have one of two options. Chicago could trade tight end help or turn to its rookie, Roush. In the end it looks like they will go together in the end.

He won’t go out there and be as strong a receiver as Kmet, but he’s showing as an effective blocker.

Malik Muhammad: Stock Up

October 11, 2026; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; Chicago Bears cornerback Malik Muhammad II (24) walks off the field after the game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-Imagn Images

Everyone in this secondary has had some tough times this season, but Muhammad has certainly stood out in a good way. After the Bears allowed another big play for a touchdown Monday night, it was clear they missed him.

So far this season, Muhammad has given up just one score, had an interception and allowed just a 53.3% completion rate when targeted.

Zavion Thomas: Stock Down

October 4, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Zavion Thomas (13) returns a kickoff against the New York Jets in the third quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-Imagn Images

It certainly looks like a breakthrough year for Thomas. He has had some good moments this season, but overall, he hasn’t seen the field and still needs to prove himself.

This stock-down grade reflects his lack of offensive snaps more than anything else.

More than the Chicago Bears

  • Todd Bowles’ Buccaneers Defense Could Turn Bears’ Week 9 into Trap Game
  • Can Bears’ D’Andre Swift Break Away Against Bucs’ Elite Defense?
  • Bears Injury Report Wednesday Week 9: First Report and Analysis
  • Bears Week 8 Outperformers and Underperformers: Rome Odunze Steps Up, Tyrique Stevenson Falters

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