More Challenges Ahead for Luther Burden After Tough Road to the Bears
Luther Burden III, the second-round wide receiver selected 39th overall by the Bears, faced heavy scrutiny leading up to the NFL Draft. Despite doubts from critics about his character, Burden remains focused on proving himself as the competition intensifies. His response to a question at Halas Hall during the draft was one of the standout moments, though it was somewhat overshadowed by the timing.
Leading up to the draft, Burden’s stock had dropped, largely due to reports about his alleged “character” issues. He was caught off guard when the Bears picked him in Round 2, far lower than he had expected after hoping to go in the first round.
“That’s mostly behind me now, but it’s still in the back of my mind,” Burden admitted on the final day of the draft at Halas Hall. “Other teams passed on me. I’ll see them again.”
With a chip firmly planted on his shoulder, Burden embodies the determination often found in players who are drafted later than anticipated.
Mizzouri WR coach Jacob Peeler joins @clayharbs82 on The Charter and talks about how Luther Burden III was such a great teammate.
Full Episode: https://t.co/mN4f5soIao pic.twitter.com/f59yppcO3G
— Bears on CHSN (@CHSN_Bears) May 6, 2025
Bears GM Ryan Poles noted that when players feel overlooked, it fuels a unique sense of urgency and work ethic. “That chip on the shoulder can ignite something different in terms of mentality and effort. The challenge is making sure that drive stays consistent,” Poles said. “Can we maintain that level of intensity and effort over time?”
Poles also emphasized that Burden will have to bring his best if he wants to earn playing time. “The beauty of our situation is that everyone has to compete. You’ve got guys like DJ Moore, Devin Duvernay, and Rome Odunze. If you want to play, you’ve got to prove yourself.”
The potential upside for the Bears, however, is clear: Burden could thrive in a competitive environment.
“I’m so happy to be in this situation,” Burden said. “I feel blessed and excited to be part of this organization. I’m grateful they believe in me.”]
There’s a ton of potential in new #Bears wideout Luther Burden III. One of my favorites in this class… some insight here @nflnetwork pic.twitter.com/wMifoecfZ6
— StaceyDales (@StaceyDales) April 30, 2025
While the exact reasons for Burden’s fall in the draft remain unclear, there were certainly some issues, though none that were seen as severe. One possible factor could be his dip in stats from 86 receptions for 1,212 yards and nine touchdowns in 2023 to 61 catches for 676 yards and six touchdowns in 2024. However, it’s worth noting that Missouri’s quarterback, Brady Cook, also saw a decline in his performance, with his completion percentage dropping and yardage falling sharply.
Burden’s drop in production could also be attributed to an injury and illness during the 2024 season, though neither was deemed serious. Additionally, there had been pre-draft questions about Burden’s character, raised by Missouri head coach Eli Drinkwitz.
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