Richard Hightower shares impression of Bears rookie Zavion Thomas

The Chicago Bears added two potential impact return specialists this offseason in veteran Kalif Raymond and rookie Zavion Thomas, who also present a receiving threat on offense. While Raymond has proven himself as a top returner in the NFL, Thomas is looking to do the same as a rookie.

Thomas was a surprising selection for Chicago in the third round, but he appeared to be handpicked by head coach Ben Johnson as a other speedy playmaker on offense, as well as a threat returning kicks on special teams.

Special teams coordinator Richard Hightower discussed both the additions of Raymond and Thomas, especially how Raymond can help bring Thomas along as a young player in the league. But Hightower also discussed what stood out specifically about Thomas' ability, calling him a "dynamic" player with great potential.

"I like his speed on tape," Hightower said, via ChicagoBears.com. "I like his natural instincts. I like his ability to catch the ball in traffic and his fearlessness … He's still young, it's still early. I mean, we'll see. But you've got a dynamic player that we like on special teams and we like on offense. This is a player that catches the ball, looks natural and he's been doing it his whole life and he's eager to be great.

"One of his first questions he asked me was, 'Why, coach, do most rookies not succeed in the NFL; what holds people back?' That told me right there about his mindset."

Thomas hasn't even hit the field yet, but he's already making an impression on the coaching staff with his physical ability and his mindset as a rookie. While the Bears have no shortage of weapons on offense, led by receivers Rome Odunze and Luther Burden III and tight end Colston Loveland, Johnson will surely find a role for Thomas. And, when he's not on offense, Thomas will likely be making plays on special teams.

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This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: Bears STC Richard Hightower shares impression of rookie Zavion Thomas