The Bears pulled off one of their most significant wins of the season in Week 16, storming back to beat the Packers 22-16 in overtime at Soldier Field. It was a game defined by late execution, veteran reliability, and situational poise. For the rookie class, it marked a noticeable step back in visibility and production.
That step back begins with the absence of receiver Luther Burden III. Listed as inactive, Burden III was missed after his excellent performance against the Browns in Week 15. Without him and Rome Odunze available, the Bears leaned heavily on veteran targets in high-leverage moments, particularly down the stretch and in overtime.
Limited ouput from 2025 Bears rookie class
On the stat sheet, rookie production was limited. Tight end Colston Loveland finished the game with three catches for 30 yards, serving as a usual steady option in a limited receiver environment.
Running back Kyle Monangai remained the most productive rookie, totaling 93 yards from scrimmage on nine carries and three receptions. Even so, none of the rookies found the end zone, and no rookie accounted for a scoring play in a game that required overtime to decide.
The rookie step back was not universal, and the most important contribution came where the box score usually remains quiet. The Bears allowed zero sacks, surrendered no yards lost to sacks, and kept their quarterback protected through 34 pass attempts.
Offensive protection matters, and it's been a vulnerable area for the Bears before this season. Offensive linemen do not show up in highlight packages, but in a comeback win that required sustained drives and late-game composure, clean protection is evidence enough.
Week 16 was not a showcase for the Bears' rookie class. It was a reminder that development is not linear and that some wins are carried by experience rather than emergence. The rookies did not define this game, but they also held their own against a truly formidable opponent. In a season built on growth, that context matters.
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Looking ahead, the margin for error only tightens. With two challenging games remaining on the schedule and a playoff berth secured, the Bears will need contributions to come from everywhere, including a rookie class that has already shown it can rise when called upon. Whether that impact shows up loudly or quietly may matter less than being ready when the moment demands it.