-
The Chicago Bears made significant strides in reshaping their offense during the 2025 NFL draft, and one of their most notable selections has drawn widespread praise. With the 39th overall pick, the Bears drafted Missouri wide receiver Luther Burden III, a dynamic playmaker who was considered by many to be one of the draft’s biggest steals.
-
Burden’s availability outside of the first round came as a surprise to many analysts. While ESPN and NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah ranked him within the top 40 prospects, Pro Football Focus had Burden listed as the second-best wide receiver in the class and a top-15 overall prospect.
-
This unexpected slide into the second round has made Burden’s selection one of the most lauded picks of the draft. ESPN’s Matt Miller placed Burden’s pick as the top value selection in his top 100 picks, praising the Bears for landing a player of his caliber at that stage.
-
Pro Football Focus was equally impressed, noting that Burden is an “all-around threat in the receiving game” with “first-round talent.” They highlighted his consistency in generating separation, noting that he ranked in the 94th percentile in separation rate over the past two seasons.
-
Burden’s selection fits perfectly into the Bears’ ongoing efforts to overhaul their offense. The team hired head coach Ben Johnson and revamped their offense around top quarterback prospect Caleb Williams. With Burden added to the mix, the Bears now have a talented group of weapons to support Williams in his rookie campaign.
-
The Bears had already addressed some key offensive needs earlier in the draft by selecting Michigan tight end Colston Loveland with the 10th overall pick. Burden’s addition gives the team even more firepower and flexibility in their passing game.
-
Despite Burden’s clear talent, his selection comes with some risk. His 2024 season was a step back from his breakout 2023 campaign. Burden’s production dipped significantly, as inconsistent quarterback play at Missouri stifled his numbers and kept him from building on his stellar sophomore year.
-
In 2023, Burden caught 86 passes for 1,212 yards and nine touchdowns. He demonstrated exceptional hands, quickness, and run-after-catch ability, making him a standout in the college game. However, in 2024, his numbers took a hit, as he finished with just 676 yards on 61 catches despite playing in all 12 games.
-
The Bears are betting that Burden’s drop-off was largely due to the struggles of Missouri’s offense in 2024, rather than any shortcomings in Burden’s game. With a more stable and potent offense in Chicago, the Bears believe Burden can return to his 2023 form and become a significant contributor in their attack.
-
As the Bears look to the future, Burden is expected to play a key role in their offense. The team has D.J. Moore and Rome Odunze as their starting wideouts, but Burden can provide much-needed depth and versatility in the slot. He will likely compete for a starting role during training camp and preseason.
-
If Burden can regain his 2023 form and build chemistry with Williams, he could become an integral part of the Bears’ passing attack. His ability to separate from defenders, paired with his quickness and reliable hands, makes him an appealing option for Johnson’s offense.
-
Ultimately, Burden’s success in the NFL will depend on his ability to adapt to the speed and complexity of the league, but his talent is undeniable. If he can tap into his potential, the Bears will have an exciting young playmaker in their offensive core for years to come.