The Chicago Bears were tabbed as one of the biggest winners on Day 2 of the 2025 NFL Draft after snagging elite wide receiver Luther Burden III in Round 2.
The former Missouri wide receiver should prove to be a menacing threat to their opposing teams, giving the Bears’ offense the serious boost it needs, and hopefully sync with the 2024 NFL Draft’s No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams to produce consistent performance.
Chicago Bears Won Big Time With Luther Burden III
“It was a bit surprising to see Luther Burden III last this long, as he’s one of the most dynamic playmakers in the 2025 NFL Draft class with the football in his hands. Ryan Poles and the Chicago Bears’ front office are doing everything in their power to help Caleb Williams succeed after a bumpy rookie season,” said PFSN analyst Brandon Austin.
Williams’ performance showed flashes of potential, as he set a Bears franchise record for the longest streak without an interception by a rookie (326 pass attempts). However, his consistency was one of the things he came up short on.
Part of it might have to do with the Bears’ offense struggling heavily in 2024, finishing 30th in PFSN’s Offense+ metric. The passing attack left much to be desired, as they ranked 29th in passing yards per attempt (6.3) and 27th in first downs per pass attempt (30.4%).
“Keenan Allen is no longer on the roster, so Chicago wanted to add more weaponry to join DJ Moore and Rome Odunze. They selected tight end Colston Loveland in Round 1 and then followed it up with the explosive Burden in the second round.
“Burden stands out as a slot receiver, showcasing a remarkable blend of speed, strength, and agility. His innate playmaking abilities make him a threat in open space, and he possesses impressive ball skills that shine when he’s able to stretch the field,” Austin added in his analysis.
Burden is a YAC machine that will complement Williams’ arm talent perfectly and will also allow the WR to maximize his strength.
The Bears’ offense was already benefited heavily from Williams’ brilliant off-script play-making abilities and how he finds open receivers even under pressure. Now they have a wide receiver who has top-notch agility and the ability to create after the catch, creating a possibility of developing the next big QB-WR duo in the NFL.
For that, Burden would still need to refine his route-running technique, versatility, and ability to gain yards after contact, which ranks among the best in this draft class.