The 19th most important player on the Chicago Bears isn’t even technically projected as a starter heading into training camp.
Still, his potential impact and long-term development could play a key role in the team taking a step forward. That’s why rookie wide receiver Luther Burden cracks the top 20.
Ranking Most Important Bears on 2025 Roster: Number 19 — Luther Burden
Burden was widely projected as a first-round pick, and at one point, even a possible top-10 selection, before a disappointing 2024 season at Missouri sent him tumbling down draft boards. The Bears didn’t have a glaring need at wide receiver when they were on the clock, but with Burden rated as the top player on their board at a premium position, they couldn’t pass him up in the second round.
On paper, it seems likely the rookie will eventually overtake veteran Olamide Zaccheaus, giving the Bears a trio of high-pedigree starters at the position. However, Burden has yet to make up any ground on Zaccheaus through offseason workouts, in part due to an injury that has limited him throughout the program.
That’s not uncommon for rookie wideouts. Many take until midseason or later to settle in and contribute consistently, so Bears fans may want to temper expectations for Burden’s rookie campaign.
That said, some rookies are special enough to make an impact right away. One thing Burden has going for him is that this offensive coaching staff drafted him, something you can’t say for any of the other receivers on the roster. Even so, the chances of him surpassing either Rome Odunze or D.J. Moore are slim, and it’s entirely possible he opens the year as the team’s No. 4 receiver.
Read more: Ranking most important Bears on 2025 roster: Number 20 is rookie pass rusher
That reality keeps him from ranking higher on this list. But with his rare talent and the possibility the Bears scheme ways to get the ball in his hands later in the season, Burden remains one of the more intriguing players to watch in 2025.