GM Ryan Poles is primarily responsible for assembling the Chicago Bears roster. However, head coach Ben Johnson will determine how those players are used. Most people assume the focus will center on running back D’Andre Swift, wide receivers D.J. Moore and Rome Odunze, and tight ends Cole Kmet and Colston Loveland. Johnson loved running “12” personnel in Detroit and has a far more talented combo of tight ends this time. However, it would be wise not to ignore another chess piece on the board.
There was excitement when the Bears scooped up Missouri wide receiver Luther Burden in the 2nd round in April. What people haven’t grasped is how excited Johnson is. The assumption was that Burden was a fallback plan after the team failed to land running TreVeyon Henderson. Truth be told, Johnson has far bigger plans for Burden than he’s indicated to this point. A source informed SM that the head coach, receiver, and quarterback Caleb Williams have had private film sessions together leading up to training camp.
Ben Johnson has all sorts of ideas for Burden.
That shouldn’t be surprising. Though he plays wide receiver, he has the capability to handle multiple positions. He can line up at running back, in the slot, on the outside, and just about anywhere. Missouri used him in various fashions with jet sweeps, reverses, handoffs, wild cats, etc. All he needs is a coach with the creativity to unlock his full potential. Everybody knows there are few offensive minds in the NFL with a greater mad scientist reputation than Ben Johnson. He was notorious for his gadget and trick plays in Detroit. One can only imagine the wacky things he’s cooking up for Burden. This is without mentioning how the rookie is fully capable of being a traditional receiver. Defenders aren’t going to like him very much.
