CHICAGO, Ill. (Sept. 8, 2025) — Olamide Zaccheaus quietly shapes up as one of the Chicago Bears’ most underrated offensive weapons under new coordinator Ben Johnson. Operating primarily in the slot, the veteran receiver brings consistency, savvy route-running, and a stout blocking presence—attributes that make him a reliable chess piece in the early-season offensive game plan.
On Monday Night Football against the Vikings, Zaccheaus’ player prop receiving-yards line offers modest totals. Sportsbooks have set his number in the 18.5 to 25-yard range, reflecting how just a couple of well-placed targets or an explosive slot play could easily push him over.
Johnson’s offense places premium value on the slot role. The position functions as a security blanket, especially in two-minute drills or against blitz pressure, where clarity and quick reads matter. Zaccheaus has already shown his fit, logging significant preseason snaps and finishing second among Bears receivers in targets. He opens the year as the team’s starting slot option, a sign of the coaching staff’s trust in his reliability.
Why Zaccheaus and not rookie Luther Burden III? Burden, despite his electric talent and ability after the catch, remains in developmental mode. Coaches are expected to use him in controlled packages until he acclimates to the scheme. Zaccheaus, in contrast, earned his role early in camp and emerged as the “F-receiver” in Johnson’s system—a moveable slot or flex threat that lines up across the formation. His polish, situational awareness, and blocking ability give him an advantage over the rookie for Week 1 and beyond.
Aside from his receiving chops, Zaccheaus brings value as a blocker. His experience and football IQ enable him to chip defenders effectively—crucial in bounce-back running sets or when sealing the edge for outside zone plays. Though he may not put up gaudy statistical lines, his willingness to do the little things makes him a key piece in sustaining drives.
Zaccheaus’ recent production underscores his potential impact. Last season, he caught 45 passes for 506 yards and three touchdowns, emerging late in the year as a dependable target. Over the final month, he posted a strong target share and routinely cleared 60 yards per game, proving he could thrive in a larger role. That same consistency is translating to his usage in Chicago, where his versatility is prized.
In Johnson’s offense, stability often trumps volatility at the slot position. Zaccheaus doesn’t bring the headline-making explosiveness of a rookie or the profile of a top receiver, but his disciplined route-running, trust factor with quarterback Caleb Williams, and presence as a blocker make him a dependable weapon. He represents the type of role player who rarely shows up in highlight packages but often swings critical third downs and red-zone sequences.
Bottom line: Zaccheaus may not command the spotlight like D.J. Moore or Rome Odunze, but he is a vital piece of Johnson’s balanced offensive scheme. With prop lines hovering around 18 to 25 receiving yards, he is well-positioned to clear that mark with just a couple of timely receptions. While Burden may shine later in the season, Zaccheaus has earned the Week 1 nod—and could cement his role with a quietly productive performance tonight.
