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Earlier this offseason, one of the NFL’s young wide receivers received a massive endorsement from his head coach. Chicago Bears receiver Luther Burden III enters his second season after a generally successful rookie campaign, but head coach Ben Johnson expects him to take an even bigger step forward.
Johnson is not the only one expecting a breakout. In ESPN’s breakdown of players poised for a breakout on each team, Burden headlined the Bears’ list.
MORE: NFL fans poke fun at Cam Skattebo’s change in appearance
“Burden was largely a screen-and-shot player to start the 2025 season, but he started to get more opportunities on crossers and underneath routes as coach Ben Johnson grew to trust him with the ball in his hands. With DJ Moore gone and Rome Odunze working back from a foot injury, the door is wide open for Burden to grab more targets — targets designed especially for him as a terrifying yards-after-catch threat. The sky is the limit here,” ESPN reported.
Jan 10, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Luther Burden III (10) leaves the field following a game against the Green Bay Packers in an NFC Wild Card Round game at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images
Burden had a solid rookie campaign. His role was primarily that of the Bears’ third wide receiver, but he earned more snaps each week and gained significant confidence from the front office.
The Bears traded DJ Moore to the Buffalo Bills, making Burden the team’s unquestioned WR2. If there is one breakout candidate who could be crucial to Chicago’s offense, it is Burden.
MORE: Sean Payton reveals he called for insanely risky fake punt during OT of playoff win over Bills
Johnson has a proven ability to maximize his personnel. Dating back to his time with the Detroit Lions, he consistently found ways to put his players in positions to succeed. He helped revive Jared Goff’s career while also turning Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery into the “Sonic and Knuckles” duo.
Nov 9, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Luther Burden III (10) makes a catch against the New York Giants during the second half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-Imagn Images
After taking on the challenge of developing quarterback Caleb Williams, Johnson helped guide the former USC quarterback to an impressive season. Part of that success came from building a strong supporting cast, which included drafting Burden.
The confidence in Burden is evident. Not only through Johnson’s comments this offseason but also through the corresponding moves made by the Bears’ front office.
Could Burden establish himself as one of the NFL’s top wide receivers in his second season?
Continue reading...
Johnson is not the only one expecting a breakout. In ESPN’s breakdown of players poised for a breakout on each team, Burden headlined the Bears’ list.
MORE: NFL fans poke fun at Cam Skattebo’s change in appearance
“Burden was largely a screen-and-shot player to start the 2025 season, but he started to get more opportunities on crossers and underneath routes as coach Ben Johnson grew to trust him with the ball in his hands. With DJ Moore gone and Rome Odunze working back from a foot injury, the door is wide open for Burden to grab more targets — targets designed especially for him as a terrifying yards-after-catch threat. The sky is the limit here,” ESPN reported.
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Jan 10, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Luther Burden III (10) leaves the field following a game against the Green Bay Packers in an NFC Wild Card Round game at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images
Burden on the rise
Burden had a solid rookie campaign. His role was primarily that of the Bears’ third wide receiver, but he earned more snaps each week and gained significant confidence from the front office.
The Bears traded DJ Moore to the Buffalo Bills, making Burden the team’s unquestioned WR2. If there is one breakout candidate who could be crucial to Chicago’s offense, it is Burden.
MORE: Sean Payton reveals he called for insanely risky fake punt during OT of playoff win over Bills
Johnson has a proven ability to maximize his personnel. Dating back to his time with the Detroit Lions, he consistently found ways to put his players in positions to succeed. He helped revive Jared Goff’s career while also turning Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery into the “Sonic and Knuckles” duo.
You must be registered for see images attach
Nov 9, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Luther Burden III (10) makes a catch against the New York Giants during the second half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-Imagn Images
After taking on the challenge of developing quarterback Caleb Williams, Johnson helped guide the former USC quarterback to an impressive season. Part of that success came from building a strong supporting cast, which included drafting Burden.
The confidence in Burden is evident. Not only through Johnson’s comments this offseason but also through the corresponding moves made by the Bears’ front office.
Could Burden establish himself as one of the NFL’s top wide receivers in his second season?
Continue reading...
