The Chicago Bears have a new standard this season. After Caleb Williams’s rookie year was plagued by less-than-ideal coaching, the organization recognized where the team lacked. As a result, they immediately hired former Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson as the new head coach. However, rather than his unrivaled offensive genius, the discipline he’s instilling in his roster has become immediately noticeable.
Throughout the offseason, especially during training camp, reports of his intensity and attention to detail made the roster. Incidents like a play being thrown out for wrong pre-snap adjustments became an everyday occurrence. However, even by that standard, Johnson tossing rookie Luther Burden III out of practice was a step too far. That might not have been the easiest pill for a youngster settling into the NFL.
Where Does Luther Burden III Stand With Practice Scuffle?
The entire situation resulted from one rookie’s wrong placement. Chicago reporters revealed that Johnson was furious with Burden for lining up at the wrong spot on the line of scrimmage. As a result, he tossed him out of those team drills with a hard staredown.
However, speaking to NBC Sports, the Missouri product did not take much issue with Johnson’s actions. Instead, he believed it was good for him and the team as a whole that their coach was ready to hold them accountable.
A second-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Tigers alum had a solid run at his program, putting up 2,263 yards and 21 touchdowns in three years with the team. However, thanks to a harmstring injury, his practices started a little later than the rest.
As a result, Johnson made it clear that he was “a little bit behind” when it came to drills, thanks to the missed time. “I feel like I’ve got to know my stuff,” Burden said. “He holds everybody to a high standard here. It’s great for us, great for the team and that’s the standard here.”
A complete culture reset was necessary for a wildly disappointing team after drafting Williams last season. The team has a new identity with additions on the offensive line and the skill position groups.
Screw it, Luther Burden highlights pic.twitter.com/BFw5WHlIf2
— Harrison Graham (@HGrahamNFL) July 31, 2025
However, with Johnson’s conduct and discipline of the team, the change in culture might have a huge impact on the team’s performance in the 2025 season. Despite his situation, Burden seems to be buying whatever his head coach sells.
Let’s hope everyone on the Bears roster follows that example.
