Luther Burden III: From Draft Disappointment to NFL Motivation

LAKE FOREST, Ill. -- Luther Burden III's journey to the NFL was anything but ordinary. The former Missouri wide receiver, who had been projected as a first-round pick, found himself waiting longer than expected during the 2025 NFL Draft. Despite the setback, Burden channeled his frustration into motivation, determined to prove his worth.

The Draft Night That Changed Everything

On April 24, 2025, the first night of the NFL Draft, Burden's name was not called. This was a stark contrast to the weeks leading up to the draft, where teams had assured him of his first-round potential. The disappointment was palpable, but Burden was not ready to give up. Instead, he took to the practice field at Missouri's Stephens Indoor Facility late into the night, catching balls from a passing machine to clear his mind.

"No, that's staying with me forever," Burden said. "Everybody who passed up on me gotta pay."

A New Beginning with the Chicago Bears

The Chicago Bears selected Burden with the 39th pick in the second round, a move that surprised the wide receiver. Before drafting Burden, the Bears had already picked Michigan tight end Colston Loveland with the 10th pick, marking the first time since 1967 that the team drafted two pass catchers with its first two picks.

Bears coach Ben Johnson was thrilled with the addition. "A dangerous player, a weapon, call him what you want, but I see big things in his future," Johnson said.

Proving His Worth

Burden's ability after the catch, with 1,080 yards being the fifth most in FBS since 2023, made him a perfect fit for Johnson's offense. Missouri wide receivers coach Jacob Peeler saw similarities between Burden and Philadelphia Eagles star A.J. Brown, whom he had coached at Ole Miss.

Despite a dip in production during his junior season, the Bears saw the same explosive player they had scouted before. "We saw none of that. He was the same level of player that we saw before," said Bears director of college scouting Breck Ackley.

A Crowded Receiver Room

Burden joins a competitive receiver room behind DJ Moore and Rome Odunze. The Bears believe this heightened competition will push everyone to be their best. "There's some guys that are going to have to grind a little bit harder than probably they ever had before," said general manager Ryan Poles.

As Burden prepares for his rookie season, he carries the motivation from his draft night experience. With the support of his new team and the determination to prove his doubters wrong, Luther Burden III is ready to make his mark in the NFL.

Key Points:

• Draft Disappointment: Luther Burden III was projected as a first-round pick but was selected in the second round by the Chicago Bears.
• Motivation: Burden used his draft night disappointment as fuel to prove his worth.
• New Team: The Bears see Burden as a valuable addition to their offense, with coach Ben Johnson praising his potential.
• Competition: Burden joins a competitive receiver room, which the Bears believe will push everyone to be their best.
• Future: With determination and support, Burden is ready to make his mark in the NFL.