The Luther Burden bandwagon is getting quite full. However, one person who will always have room to jump on board is General Manager Ryan Poles. After head coach Ben Johnson predicted a big year for Burden during OTAs, it was Poles to say that he could not contain his excitement for Burden to start training camp.
Chicago Bears have high expectations for second-year wide receiver Luther BurdenÂ
Poles noted that one of the biggest things that stood out to him was that Burden would text quarterbacks throughout the summer to work out and throw with him.
His work ethic standing out to the General Manager is a good sign.Â
Ryan Poles: "If there’s a guy that I’m really excited about, it’s Luther Burden, just because of how much he’s grown from the day he walked in this building. I mean, I heard he was just texting and calling these quarterbacks just looking for an arm to throw to him every day of…
— Chris Emma (@CEmma670) July 28, 2026
This is notable because there are legitimate questions about who will be the top pass catcher on the team. Colston Loveland was the biggest breakout from last season. He is the former top ten pick, and he is entering his second NFL.
The team also has Rome Odunze, who was a former top ten pick. He is entering his third NFL season, which is even more important considering there are now contract discussions on the line after this year.Â
Still, it is the second-round pick Burden who is getting the praise from all of these authoritative figures more than it is the other two.Â
If the offense were to be built similarly to the Detroit Lions, it would make sense that Burden has a chance for the most work on the team. Loveland would obviously take the role of Sam LaPorta. While both had great rookie years, LaPorta plateaued in his second season.
Odunze would be more in line with Jameson Williams. Both are boom or bust deep threats who can create huge plays in chunks, but also go too long without production.
That would lead Burden to play a role similar to Amon-Ra St. Brown. Both play in the slot, but can motion outside, into the backfield, or all around to get the ball in their hands. Both approach the game with that passionate demeanor.Â
Neither of them was a first-round pick. St. Brown had a strong season but exploded into being one of the best pass catchers in the NFL during his second season. All eyes are on Burden to take that same step this year. No one is trying to slow the roll of the discussion or the expectations. That speaks to the faith the team has in him.
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