Could Luther Burden III Win Offensive Rookie of the Year?
The Chicago Bears have one of the best wide receiving rooms currently in the NFL. Leading them is seven-year-veteran D.J. Moore, who averages 1,000 receiving yards per season and five touchdowns. Someone who will have a much bigger role this season with the departure of wide receiver Keenan Allen is wide receiver Rome Odunze. The 23-year-old would be drafted in 2024 with the ninth overall pick, going after his quarterback, Caleb Williams, with the first overall pick. Williams and Odunze developed a strong relationship throughout the season and now have the opportunity to make a big jump this year. The Bears wouldn’t be satisfied, however, deciding on another receiver in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Wide receiver, Luther Burden III, would be drafted by Chicago in the second round with the 39th overall pick. Burden was a projected first-round pick and a pleasant surprise to Bears fans when selected. Chicago’s new head coach, Ben Johnson, knew the Bears could use a new slot receiver, a role that Burden will fit perfectly in this brand-new offense. Burden would have a big career at Mizzou, having 2,263 receiving yards in just three seasons with the team. While the former Tiger will look for a big rookie season in Chicago, could he win Offensive Rookie of the Year?
Burden will be going against some impressive competition this season for the award. Running back Ashton Jeanty and quarterback Cam Ward are heavy favorites heading into the 2025 season. As for the other wide receivers Burden will compete against, Travis Hunter will be his biggest challenge to outplay. While the competition may be difficult, Burden has the advantage of being a slot receiver under a Ben Johnson-led offense. Johnson has a great resume with slot receivers, a position that was most impactful in his time with Detroit. Wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown became a star with the Lions, and it was in huge part thanks to the vision of his offensive coordinator. Burden may not be the most eye-catching choice, but he will be a player to look out for in Chicago to win Offensive Rookie of the Year.
