Biggest x factor for the Bears
By: Jake Rajala
The Chicago Bears made playoffs last season. It wasn’t easy, as every team in the NFC North had a winning record. I believe the Bears can even take it up a notch. One of the main reasons they can do so, is because of a weapon called Luther Burden.
So, who exactly is Luther Burden? He was drafted by the LV Raiders in the second round in 2025. He played for the Missouri Tigers in college. Other notable Tigers are Justin Smith, Jeremy Maclin, and Chase Daniel.
Luther showed a glimpse of what he can do last season. He recorded 652 yards in 15 games. I believe it’s impressive he notched that many yards as a third option. Rome Odunzo and DJ Moore were the go-to weapons. Of course, Moore is no longer a Bear. This means that Luther, who is only 22, will get more targets and attention.
Caleb Williams really grew from his rookie season to his sophomore season. He threw nearly 500 more yards in his second season than his first season. Furthermore, he also threw seven more touchdowns in his sophomore season than his rookie season.
I’m not saying that Burden will be the next Brandon Marshall, but he will be a 1k yard WR next season, in my opinion.
He tested very well when coming out of college. He had the second highest score (85) among rookie wide receivers. He was compared to Garrett Wilson.
Luther Burden should be happy knowing that the secondaries in the NFC North aren’t exactly daunting. Luther should be licking his chops at his competition in the frigid NFC North.
There are a couple of other skill guys that are under the radar and poised to shine. Kyle Monangai was the Bears seventh round pick in 2025. He had 783 yards, five touchdowns, and averaged 4.6 YPC. Jadhae Walker is entering his second season. He has made some splash plays this off-season.
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