During Friday’s joint practice with the Buffalo Bills, rookie WR Luther Burden III ran with the Bears second-team offense, according to Greg Braggs Jr. of CHGO Sports.
What They're Saying
Braggs Jr.: “Back to back catches from Luther Burden in 11 on 11s for the 2nd team. 1st one was a beautifully executed back shoulder throw.”
2025 Fantasy Football Impact
While it’s frustrating Burden isn’t running with the first-team offense, it’s hardly surprising.
Burden’s first NFL training camp was delayed due to a hamstring injury he suffered during the spring, and the Bears have been bringing him along gradually. Still, Burden has been progressing well as of late, impressing the Chicago coaching staff. Veteran WR Olamide Zaccheaus has reportedly been playing so well that it has kept Burden from taking over that WR3 role for the Bears. According to Scott Blair of Marquee Sports Network, Zaccheaus “has QB Caleb Williams’ trust,” which has helped him hold onto the WR3 role for now.
Burden’s talent suggests he’ll emerge as the third option at some point, though it may not come until after the bye week, when rookies tend to hit their stride. He checks in as the WR60 in our rankings, though there is still plenty of upside waiting to be unlocked.