Luther Burden's rookie season graded by Steve Smith Sr.

This episode kicks off a highly anticipated chapter of the Rookie Report Card series. After a pre-draft cycle filled with debates about his size and high-end speed, Luther Burden III silenced the skeptics in the Windy City.

NFL Legend Steve Smith Sr. and Insider James Palmer go into the lab to break down how the former Missouri star became a weapon for Caleb Williams in Ben Johnson’s high-octane Bears offense.

Inside the Episode:

The Pre-Draft Redemption: Steve addresses the "rocky" evaluation process that saw Burden slide to the second round, and what Luther has done to mature above those offseason issues.

Earning QB1’s Trust: We dive into the chemistry between Caleb Williams and Burden. Steve highlights the specific "anticipation throws" from Caleb that prove Luther has already earned the status of a go-to target in high-leverage moments.

The Ben Johnson Factor: How did the Bears' new head coach unlock Burden so quickly? We break down the creative ways the Bears used him in the slot and on manufactured touches to punish NFC North defenses.

The DJ Moore Rumors: With reports swirling that the Bears could trade DJ Moore this offseason due to financial and effort concerns, Steve discusses if Burden is ready to step into the WR1 role full-time in 2026.

The Final Grades:* Steve puts Luther through the 5-Category Gauntlet: Route Running, Role Acceptance, Big Dog Factor, Transition, and Potential.

Bears fans: Is Luther Burden III already the best WR on this roster? And should the Bears pull the trigger on a DJ Moore trade? Let us know in the comments! 👇

0:00 Luther Burden
2:50 Film
4:50 Grades

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