Chicago Bears coach Ben Johnson is all in on Luther Burden III in Year 2

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Chicago Bears coach Ben Johnson is all in on Luther Burden III in Year 2

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated May 31, 2026 9:53 AM ET

Ben Johnson and the Chicago Bears showed this offseason that they fully believe in Luther Burden III. On March 11, they traded DJ Moore to the Buffalo Bills, signaling that the team will give the second-year wide receiver a bigger role next season.

Burden showcased his skill set throughout 2025, recording 47 receptions for 652 yards and two touchdowns. The numbers may not be eye-popping, but he delivered them while playing behind Moore and Rome Odunze. Bears head coach Ben Johnson and his staff saw enough to hand him the keys to a more prominent role moving forward.

Many expect Burden to be among Caleb Williams’ favorite weapons. If he proves that he is ready for more targets, he could easily top his rookie year performance.

NFL: Chicago Bears Rookie Minicamp Chicago Bears wide receiver Luther Burden III speaks during the Rookie Minicamp at Halas Hall. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

Ben Johnson expresses full confidence in Chicago Bears WR Luther Burden III

Johnson addressed reporters ahead of the Bears’ second day of OTAs on Thursday. He talked about the work the wideout has put in and expressed satisfaction with what he has seen.

“Yeah, I’m buying Luther Burden stock right now,” Johnson said. “Just how he’s approached his offseason — it’s been electric. He showed up yesterday and had numerous explosive plays. I loved how, in Phase Two, he was finishing every single rep that he took, and that really translated over to yesterday as well.

“So he’s in a really good spot. He’s still developing and growing his route tree. Coach L and Isaiah Ford have done a phenomenal job with him, just working to develop those things — speed cuts, sharp breaks, releases, things of that nature. And he’s been extremely coachable. So I’m really happy with him.”

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It’s an exciting time for Bears fans. The young core of the team has playoff experience and is hungry for more success. Burden will be key in surpassing Chicago’s achievements in 2025, and many will focus on him starting in Week 1.

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

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