Day one of training camp got underway for the Chicago Bears, and there is already a big problem the team was hoping wouldn’t happen.
Rookie second-round wide receiver Luther Burden III was noticeably absent from practice. This was something ESPN Bears beat reporter Courtney Cronin brought up in her article, with key observations from the practice.
“Rookie wide receiver Luther Burden III was absent from Wednesday's practice despite Johnson saying in June that the second-rounder would be good to go for camp. Burden dealt with two separate injuries during the spring that forced him to miss OTAs and minicamp.”
Burden’s unknown soft tissue injury is now a legitimate problem
Originally, Burden being out wasn’t as much of a concern as it was only offseason workouts, as he dealt with a soft tissue injury. Johnson said he would be ready to go for training camp earlier in the summer. So, what’s going on?
The Bears need Burden at camp, as he is projected to be a starter in the slot with DJ Moore and Rome Odunze on the outside. Now, all signs point towards Olamide Zaccheaus coming in and stealing a starting spot from Burden. At least for now.
Burden has the potential to be special after being a former second-team All-American and two-time All-SEC selection at Missouri. He’s got exceptional route-running skills and speed to burn defenders in the secondary.
Bears quarterback Caleb Williams needs to see more consistency from his wide receivers after Odunze barely catching over 50% of his targets last year. Whoever is in that slot position needs to be the reliable third-down receiver Williams can turn to when the pressure is on.
Head coach Ben Johnson can use Burden the same way he moved around Jameson Williams in the Detroit Lions offense last year. Taking him from slot to outside to even being in the backfield. Burden can be a dangerous weapon in the offense.
Read more: Day one of Bears training camp and Dennis Allen already sent a warning shot
If Chicago can figure what’s going on and get him back on the field, it will make that offense better.