Burden was selected early in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft, and he was dubbed one of the biggest steals of the draft. While he played behind Moore and Rome Odunze at receiver, Burden’s playmaking ability made him an early standout. Last season, Burden totaled 47 catches on 60 targets for 652 yards and two touchdowns as a rookie.<\/p>\n
With Moore now in Buffalo, Burden is poised to step into a bigger role on offense as the No. 2 receiver behind Odunze. But it certainly feels like he has the potential to even become quarterback Caleb Williams’ top wideout. Sports Illustrated’s Conor Orr<\/a> made a list of various bold predictions for the 2026, including projecting a massive sophomore season for Burden.<\/p>\n Obviously, if Emeka Egbuka leads all NFL receivers in touchdown catches this year (No. 26), Burden cannot best the former Ohio State standout in that category. However, he will outpace Tetairoa McMillan, Matthew Golden and Jayden Higgins in a star-cementing 2026 campaign.\u00a0<\/p>\n Burden, selected 39th overall, was the sixth receiver taken in the 2025 draft, behind two-way player Travis Hunter (2nd), Tetairoa McMillan (8th), Egbuka (19th), Matthew Golden (23rd) and Jayden Higgins (34th). So if he develops into a top-two receiver in that class, that selection will wind up being a huge steal for Chicago.<\/p>\n Need a news break? Check out the all new PLAY hub with puzzles, games and more!<\/a><\/p>\n Burden showcased his impressive potential during his rookie season, and he’ll no doubt have plenty of opportunities in Year 2. If he can maximize his talent and ability, the Bears<\/a> offense will be the better for it (and Williams might just have a new favorite target).<\/p>\n Follow Bears Wire on\u00a0Twitter<\/a>,\u00a0Facebook<\/a>\u00a0and\u00a0Instagram<\/a><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/90478796007-29159120.jpg\")
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