Ben Johnson Sends A Clear Message To Bears Rookie

LAKE FOREST, Ill. — Chicago Bears rookie wide receiver Luther Burden III faced a public reprimand during Tuesday’s training camp practice at Halas Hall, as head coach Ben Johnson removed him from team drills after repeated alignment errors at the line of scrimmage. The incident, which unfolded on the fifth day of camp, highlighted the challenges Burden faces as he returns from a lingering hamstring injury that sidelined him for much of the offseason.

Burden, a second-round draft pick from Missouri, struggled with pre-snap positioning during a team session. Johnson, visibly frustrated, halted the drill to address the rookie’s mistakes, pulling him from the field. The episode followed a similar issue during Monday’s walk-through, where Burden’s misalignment forced the offense to restart plays. The Bears’ coaching staff, led by Johnson, emphasizes precision, and the rookie’s errors drew immediate correction.

The 22-year-old wideout, selected 39th overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, returned to practice Monday after missing the first four camp sessions due to a soft-tissue injury sustained in May’s rookie minicamp. His absence from organized team activities and minicamp already put him behind in learning Chicago’s new offensive system. Tuesday’s practice marked his first participation in team drills, but his missteps underscored the steep learning curve he faces.

Burden’s athleticism and yards-after-catch ability made him a standout at Missouri, where he earned all-SEC honors with 86 receptions for 1,212 yards and nine touchdowns in 2023. The Bears view him as a dynamic slot receiver to complement stars DJ Moore and Rome Odunze. However, his early struggles raise questions about his readiness to claim a significant role in the offense.

Johnson, in his first year as head coach, has stressed accountability and execution since camp began. The Bears, aiming to build chemistry around quarterback Caleb Williams, cannot afford miscues from key playmakers. Burden’s ejection from drills served as a reminder of the high standards Johnson sets for his roster.

Despite the setback, Burden showed flashes of potential. He made a clean catch in individual drills with backup quarterback Tyson Bagent, displaying the route-running ability that made him a coveted draft pick. The Bears remain optimistic about his development, with Johnson noting the rookie’s status as “day to day” earlier in camp. The team plans to gradually increase his reps as he regains full health.

Tuesday’s practice, the first in full pads, saw heightened intensity. The Bears focused heavily on the run game, with players like running back D’Andre Swift and rookie Kyle Monangai taking significant contact. Meanwhile, Burden’s return, though marred by errors, marks a step toward integrating him into Chicago’s revamped offense.

With the preseason opener against the Miami Dolphins approaching, Burden has time to refine his skills. His ability to quickly grasp the playbook and avoid further missteps will determine how soon he can contribute. For now, the rookie’s focus remains on earning Johnson’s trust and proving his draft-day promise on the field.