The Chicago Bears faced a setback when rookie wide receiver Luther Burden III sustained a quad injury during the final play of their game against the San Francisco 49ers on December 17, 2023. While the injury is not believed to be serious, Burden will undergo further testing to assess the situation, according to a report from ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Burden attempted to leave the field under his own power but required assistance to reach the locker room, ultimately being carted off by trainers. This injury follows his absence from Chicago’s Week 16 game due to an ankle issue. Bears head coach Ben Johnson did not provide detailed information regarding the injury during the post-game press conference.
Despite the injury, Burden expressed confidence, stating he “gave it my all out there” and that he was “tired as hell.” This incident comes at a challenging time for the rookie, who had just delivered the best performance of his season, recording eight receptions for 138 yards and a touchdown. Over his last three games, Burden has emerged as a significant asset for the Bears, collecting a total of 18 receptions for 289 yards.
The Bears selected Burden in the second round of the 2023 draft, and he has made an immediate impact with 44 catches for 617 yards and two touchdowns this season. The team, currently holding an 11-5 record, has also been missing their top receiver Rome Odunze, who is sidelined due to a foot injury.
As the Bears prepare to host the Detroit Lions in Week 18, they have already clinched the NFC North title. However, they remain in contention for the No. 2 seed in the conference, making Burden’s potential recovery crucial for their postseason aspirations.
As the situation develops, fans and teammates will be eager to learn more about Burden’s condition following the additional tests.
