Ben Johnson says rising Chicago Bears wide receiver has 'earned' his playing time

Chicago Bears wide receiver Luther Burden has slowly started to climb up the team’s depth chart. At the start of the 2025 season, Burden was listed as WR4 behind Rome Odunze, DJ Moore, and Olamide Zaccheaus.

More news: Chicago Blackhawks’ Connor Bedard has officially become a superstar

In the limited amount of playing time he was given, Burden proved why he can be a key figure in the offense. During Week 3, he caught a 65 yard touchdown against the Cowboys. In Week 10’s win over the Giants, Burden made a few explosive plays including, a catch that led to the game winning touchdown run from Caleb Williams.

The former Missouri standout officially became the Bears’ WR3 during Sunday’s thrilling victory over the Minnesota Vikings. Burden saw the field more than Zaccheaus, who has struggled in the last few games.

Burden only caught only three passes for 27 yards against Minnesota, however he has seen a major increase in snaps compared to the rest of the season.

While Burden hasn’t gotten as many receptions or yards, he simply has been catching the football nearly time he’s been targeted. The wide receiver is slowly starting to gain much more chemistry with Caleb Williams as well.

During Wednesday’s press conference, head coach Ben Johnson sounded off and why Burden has finally seen an increase in playing time.

The Chicago Bears’ rookie has “earned it” according to Ben Johnson