Chicago Bears rookie feels Ben Johnson’s wrath despite beating Buccaneers

The Chicago Bears moved to 7-2 with their 27-24 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 9. But it certainly wasn’t the cleanest game Chicago has played.

The Bears held a 24-13 advantage entering the fourth quarter. But after a Luther Burden fumble deep in Chicago territory, the Buccaneers managed to tie the game at 24.

Turnovers were the biggest red flag against the Bears all game. Quarterback Caleb Williams threw a career-high four interceptions. The defense managed to pick up the offense’s slack, but there will be plenty of improvements to make after the bye week.

In terms of any changes, head coach Ben Johnson has proven he isn’t afraid to shake things up if necessary. One rookie learned that lesson the hard way in Week 9.

Chicago Bears’ Ben Johnson calls out Zavion Thomas

Chicago Bears 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

On their first drive of the second quarter, the Bears found themselves at first-and-goal from the Tampa Bay eight-yard line. But they were suddenly forced into second-and-goal from the 21 after rookie wide receiver was called for unnecessary roughness. That drive ended with Williams throwing his first interception of the game.

If I’m not mistaken, Zavion Thomas has 41 receiving yards and 35 penalty yards on the season pic.twitter.com/AMqdemdIBH

— Depressed Bears Fan (@ImBearsFan) November 9, 2026

Johnson made his feelings clear on that penalty with how Thomas was handled the rest of the game. His response when asked about the rookie receiver was just as scorching, via Johnson’s postgame press conference, h/t Ari Meirov of the 33rd Team.

“Yeah, I don’t know if he played on offense after that,” Johnson said.

#Bears HC Ben Johnson on WR Zavion Thomas’ 15-yard unnecessary roughness penalty in the 1st quarter which halted their momentum:

“Yeah, I don’t know if he played on offense after that.” pic.twitter.com/i39owi1dga

— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) November 9, 2026

Thomas finished the game with one catch for 13 yards. He did make some noise on special teams, averaging nearly 30 yards over his three kick returns. Still, the receiver will now need to earn back his spot in the offense.

With the bye week on deck, Thomas will have plenty of time to think about the penalty. As a rookie, he was expected to make mistakes. But if those mistakes cost the Bears in a crucial scenario, Johnson will make sure you’re fully aware of the consequences.

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