Hype around Chicago Bears receiver Luther Burden was only slowed by a summer injury that caused the pass catcher to miss the preseason and end of camp. Still, head coach Ben Johnson has been consistent in the belief that Burden was going to be ready for Week 1 and has continually confirmed this talking about the progress Burden has made. With that said, words at times can be misleading with injuries consistently changing or coaches understandable being a bit more positive when it comes to potential return timelines.
Now, there is no debate: Burden is going to be suited up and stepping onto the field in Week 1. Arguably the biggest surprise on Chicago's first 53-man roster was the fact the franchise opted to only carry five receivers. Rome Odunze, Luther Burden, Kalif Raymond, Zavion Thomas, and Jahdae Walker made the roster, with Ray-Ray McCloud being brought back as well with an injury designation.
Chicago made the surprise decision not to begin the season with six receivers, and this points to an incredible level of confidence in Burden. If the coaching staff had any inkling that Burden could miss the first week of the season, fans would've seen the franchise opt to carry another viable option at the position.
This is also great news for fans wondering whether or not Burden's expected breakout season could be slowed by the injury. If Burden weren't completely healthy, it would be difficult to believe this is the roster decision the Bears would be making.
Bears fans can breathe a sigh of relief as the franchise continues to confirm Luther Burden's health
Burden and Odunze are clearly the top options at the position, with the more interesting debate happening when you begin to look at how the snaps will be managed after this duo. A large part of Chicago's decision to carry five receivers as well is likely due to the confidence in Colston Loveland, Sam Roush, and Colet Kmet providing consistent production from the tight end position and allowing the Bears to run heavy sets without losing pass-catching production.
While this is an undeniable factor, Burden's health and lofty expectations for the year ahead are the more exciting takeaway. Chicago's offense is deep when it comes to potential playmakers, but none is more important to whether or not the Bears take the next leap than Burden.
For the pass catcher, there is a great chance to start out the season hot with the Carolina Panthers and Minnesota Vikings as the first two teams scheduled, neither having the clear secondary depth or speed to take on a healthy Burden.
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