Luther Burden III isn’t just joining the Chicago Bears; he’s changing the playbook for NFL rookies. On Friday, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that the star rookie has reached an agreement with the Bears on a fully guaranteed, $10.965 million contract.
It’s a contract history in the making. For the first time, the 39th pick in the draft secures a fully guaranteed deal, a rarity even in an era of record contracts for top selections. This move could force teams and agents to reconsider how rookie deals are structured beyond the first round.
Burden, who registered 192 receptions for 2,263 yards and 21 TDs for the Missouri Tigers in 38 games, is penciled in for a major role alongside Caleb Williams in Chicago’s revamped offense.
Before finalizing Burden’s historic deal, the Bears had already signed several members of their 2025 draft class, including first-round tight end Colston Loveland, second-round offensive tackle Ozzy Trapilo and defensive tackle Shemar Turner.
With contract negotiations now out of the way, Chicago’s second-round pick can focus on building chemistry with Williams and finding his role in an offense that is being retooled for long-term success.
In May, Luther Burden III issued a warning to teams after his unexpected draft-day slide.
“That’s staying with me forever,” Burden said. “Everybody who passed up on me gotta pay.”
Now, Burden’s next mission is proving he’s worth every dollar on the field.
