The Chicago Bears kicked off training camp on Wednesday with mostly a clean bill of health. The only two players missing practice were cornerback Jaylon Johnson, who is on the Non-Football Injury list, and rookie wide receiver Luther Burden. Burden sustained a soft tissue injury during rookie minicamp, but was expected to be back for the start of training camp.
That said, head coach Ben Johnson provided an update on Burden before Thursday's practice. According to Chris Emma of 670 The Score, Johnson said, "We were very hopeful that he'd be ready to go for Day 1. ... Really, it's day-to-day for him."
In addition to providing an update, Johnson once again made it clear how important the reps Burden is missing are. adding, "There's really no substitute for full-speed reps. The sooner we get him out there, the sooner he can carve out a role for himself", according to CHGO Sports. This is now the second time that Johnson has made a point during a press conference that Burden is missing important reps.
Ben Johnson on Luther Burden:
— CHGO Bears (@CHGO_Bears) July 24, 2025
"There's really no substitute for full-speed reps. The sooner we get him out there, the sooner he can carve out a role for himself."
Ben Johnson Makes it Clear Luther Burden is Missing Crucial Time
During his penultimate press conference in the spring, Johnson talked about what Burden missing time meant for his development. He said, "He misses a lot. I mean, anytime you’re not out there, if you’re in the training room, when the rest of the guys are practicing, you’re losing valuable time... It’s not just the coaching staff having trust in you doing the right thing over and over, but it’s also your teammates, they’ve got to be out there."
The new head coach's comments, both in the spring and on Thursday morning, outline how important it is for the rookie receiver to get out there. Having said that, it's not like Burden isn't participating in meetings.
After providing the update on Burden, Johnson talked about what the rookie has been doing off the field. He said that receivers coach Antwaan Randle El has been all over him in meetings, keeping him involved by quizzing nonstop, and that the quarterbacks are pulling Burden off to the side during walkthroughs.
Ben Johnson on Luther Burden:
— Nicholas Moreano (@NicholasMoreano) July 24, 2025
- Mentioned that Coach Randle El has been all over him in meetings, keeping him involved
- Burden is being quizzed nonstop
- QBs are pulling Burden off to the side during walkthroughs
Johnson did say he is utilizing the time as much as he can, but…
Although Burden remains active in meetings and walkthroughs, Johnson’s public comments have now twice underscored the urgency of getting back on the field. That is why Bears fans hope to see Burden out on the practice field as soon as possible.