The Chicago Bears did everything possible during the NFL Draft to ensure that young quarterback Caleb Williams would be provided with playmakers around him.
Chicago drafted Michigan tight end Colston Loveland in the first round and then took Missouri wide receiver Luther Burden III in the second round.
Burden was believed to be a first-round pick but fell to Day 2, and now Damian Parson from Bleacher Report thinks Burden is one of the NFL rookies who are under the most pressure entering training camp this summer.
“The Chicago Bears may be tempted to use the neutralizer from Men in Black to make everyone forget Caleb Williams’ tumultuous rookie season,” Parson wrote. “Adding multiple playmakers early in the draft is a significant next step after improving the offensive line. Luther Burden III entered the 2024 college football season as part of the WR1 conversation alongside Tetaiora McMillan. Burden’s season with Missouri was underwhelming, leading to a dip in production and his 2025 NFL draft stock. However, the Bears’ second-round pick excels as a run-after-catch slot receiver. He understands spacing and getting to his design spots after the snap. He is explosive after the catch and a threat whenever he possesses the football. Burden has been absent from the end of OTAs and minicamp due to a soft tissue injury. Head coach Ben Johnson made note of the missed opportunities by not being available. ‘He misses a lot,’ the Chicago HC said. ‘Anytime you’re not out there if you’re in the training room when the rest of the guys are practicing, you’re losing valuable time; valuable time with your coaches, reps with your teammates, and the ability to build the trust we’re talking about.” Needless to say, the 21-year-old must catch up quickly in training camp. He is also unsigned due to contract disputes over guaranteed money (a theme is building). Burden doesn’t need a slow start to camp because fans will not be as forgiving, and his coaching staff needs to trust him.”
In 38 games at Missouri, Burden recorded 2,263 receiving yards and 21 scores, so he is capable of putting the ball in the end zone.
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Burden should be able to help Williams become one of the best quarterbacks in the sport this season.
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