This Chicago Bears player is expected to breakout in 2026

The Chicago Bears are ready to take the next step after a strong 2025 season. They were able to win the NFC North and capture the second seed in the NFC, but lost in the NFC Divisional Round. This season, they are looking to take that next step as they attempt to bring a Lombardi to the franchise. In order to take that next step, players need to have breakout seasons. Chicago has some players who could do so, but who is the one Bears player that one outlet believes to be a breakout star? Let’s take a closer look.

Luther Burden III could have a breakout 2026 season

Zachary Pereles of CBS Sports wrote an article discussing under-the-radar breakout star candidates in the NFC. For the Bears, wide receiver Luther Burden III was named as a breakout candidate. Below is what Pereles wrote:

“Luther Burden III wsa alredy a popular breakout candidate before Ben Johnson said he’s ‘buying Luther Burden stock right now.’ … Burden averaged 2.71 yards per route run, third-highest out of the 152 wide receivers who ran at least 100 routes. Burden is speedy and shifty and, ultimately, uber-talented, as he showed as a sophomore at Missouri before a down junior season caused his draft stock to drop. With DJ Moore gone to Buffalo, Burden will see his role expand – and could see his numbers explode – in Year 2.”

Burden had a strong rookie season in the NFL. He played 15 games (five starts) and recorded 47 catches on 60 targets for 652 yards (13.9 yards per reception) with a pair of touchdowns. With the 1-2 punch of him and Rome Odunze, this offense can be strong. In addition, they drafted Zavion Thomas and tight end Sam Roush to help the skill positions. Quarterback Caleb Williams is ready to take that next step himself, and Burden could significantly help the offense

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