Bears Second-Rounder Makes NFL History
Luther Burden III would put ink to paper with the Chicago Bears earlier this afternoon, signing a four-year deal worth $10.965 million and fully guaranteed. The Bears’ second-rounder would not only agree to his contract but make NFL history by becoming the first 39th overall pick to secure a fully guaranteed deal, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Burden would have an impressive career at Mizzou, making himself a projected first-rounder in this year's NFL Draft, but falling into the second round, where the Bears would take advantage. The former Mizzou Tiger will now have the opportunity to become a top slot receiver in Chicago.
This move would come after a series of delays going on in the league, with nearly every second-round pick not signing their contract without fully guaranteed deals. It has become common practice in the NFL that first-round selections get fully guaranteed contracts, while the second-rounders typically have to prove themselves. The selections, including Burden, would take a stand this season, as we ultimately begin to see these picks one by one receive what they asked for. Burden wouldn’t be alone on his team, with second-round offensive tackle Ozzy Trapilo and defensive tackle Shemar Turner signing their rookie deals just days before, which included mostly guaranteed money.
Burden looks to become a large part of a brand new Bears offense, which is now led by head coach Ben Johnson. Johnson is notorious for being able to open up the playbook for slot receivers, providing Burden with the ultimate opportunity to grow. The rookie hasn’t practiced since rookie minicamp, after missing OTAs with a soft tissue injury. Luckily for Burden, he’s expected to be fully healed in time for training camp and back out on the field with no limitations. He will look to not only shake the rust off after not being able to practice, but also work alongside his brand-new quarterback in Caleb Williams. The two have the opportunity to become a dangerous duo in the NFL and bring a lot of success to Johnson’s offense. Now with the contract situation out of the way, the Bears and their picks can focus on training camp, which begins tomorrow.
