The Chicago Bears finished the regular season on a low note, falling short for the second time this year against the Detroit Lions.
Several rookies took their usual places as the Bears fought for the second seed, a position they got by default, thanks to the Philadelphia Eagles losing in their respective match against the Washington Commanders.
Bears' rookies step into spotlight in Week 18
Colston Loveland led the Bears by a wide margin in the target department, collecting 10 receptions on thirteen targets. Loveland displayed his usual reliability, posting 91 yards and a touchdown.
Loveland's involvement wasn't limited to volume alone, as his targets consistently came in high-leverage situations. This displays a level of trust not typically seen in a rookie. When the Bears needed reliability over improvisation, the rookie tight end remained the most dependable option on the field.
Luther Burden III's afternoon was quieter by comparison, especially after his stellar performances of the last few weeks. With key receivers such as Rome Odunze and Olamide Zaccheaus ruled out for the past few games, Burden has shown no struggles stepping further into the limelight.
Burden finished with three receptions for 35 yards on four targets. This marks a step back from Week 17, where Caleb Williams targeted the young wideout nine times.
Kyle Monangai's contributions followed a similar theme. The rookie running back totaled six carries for 14 yards, an inefficient output on paper, but one that doesn't fully capture his involvement.
Monangai remained part of the rotation and was trusted in short-yardage and conversion situations, including the successful two-point attempt in the fourth quarter. He also added a reception for 15 yards, further illustrating that the coaching staff continues to view him as a situational tool rather than a purely depth option.
Week 18 ultimately served as a clarifying snapshot rather than a sweeping statement. Loveland's role was cemented, but Burden's usage continued to evolve, and Monangai showed again that he's trusted in critical football. As all of these rookies stand on the threshold of their first journey into NFL playoff football, consistency is essential to this team's success.
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If the rest of the Bears can hold pace, these talented rookies should have no issues pulling their own weight, and then some.