The Chicago Bears offense under new Head Coach Ben Johnson is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing units in the NFL. With the arrival of quarterback Caleb Williams, the highly anticipated pairing of D.J. Moore and rookie Rome Odunze, and a revamped offensive line, attention has naturally gravitated towards the headline-grabbing pieces. However, as the offseason progresses, a quieter, yet fiercely competitive, battle is brewing for a pivotal role: the slot wide receiver. While many automatically penciled in second-round pick Luther Burden III for this crucial position, insights from former NFL tight end and current CHSN Sports analyst Clay Harbor suggest that Burden is facing “bigger competition than people think” from veteran free-agent signing, Olamide Zaccheaus. This seemingly unexpected challenge from a “bargain” acquisition adds a compelling layer to the Bears’ offensive outlook, promising a dynamic and well-rounded receiving corps.
The Highly-Touted Rookie: Luther Burden III’s Ascent and Slide
Luther Burden III arrived in Chicago carrying the weight of significant expectations. As a five-star recruit and the No. 1 ranked wide receiver in the 2022 high school class, Burden had been on the radar of NFL scouts for years. His collegiate career at the University of Missouri showcased flashes of the elite talent that made him such a coveted prospect. His true breakout season came in 2023, where he became the focal point of the Tigers’ offense, amassing an impressive 1,212 receiving yards and nine touchdowns on 86 receptions, earning him Associated Press second-team All-America honors. His run-after-catch ability was undeniable, often creating explosive plays and forcing missed tackles with his stout frame and impressive contact balance. He demonstrated versatility, capable of lining up anywhere on the field and contributing as a punt returner and even a ball carrier.
However, Burden’s final college season in 2024 saw a statistical regression, with his production dipping to 676 receiving yards on 61 catches and six touchdowns. This decline, coupled with some reported concerns about his off-field attitude and inconsistencies in his route running, caused his draft stock to slide. What was once considered a potential top-10 pick ultimately landed with the Bears at No. 39 overall in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Despite the slide, the talent is undeniable: his 4.42-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine quelled any questions about his long speed, and his play style, characterized by a “NAS acceleration button” and creativity as a ball carrier, drew comparisons to dynamic playmakers like Deebo Samuel Sr. and Percy Harvin. Burden enters the league with a massive chip on his shoulder, openly motivated to “make teams pay” for passing on him, a mindset that can often fuel early career success.
Yet, as with many rookies, Burden’s transition to the NFL has had its early hurdles. Recent reports indicate he has missed some practice time during OTAs due to a soft-tissue injury. While not considered long-term, any missed time is crucial for a rookie attempting to absorb a new playbook, build rapport with a new quarterback (Caleb Williams), and prove his worth against seasoned professionals. This initial absence creates an opening for veteran competitors.
The “Bargain” Veteran: Olamide Zaccheaus’s Resurgence and Reliability
Stepping into that opening, and providing the unexpected challenge to Burden, is Olamide Zaccheaus. Signed by the Bears to a modest one-year, $1.2 million contract in free agency, Zaccheaus arrived in Chicago somewhat under the radar, especially compared to the high-profile draft picksonst big-money signings. However, his performance in 2024 withrati Washington Commanders marked a “career-rejuvenating season,” where he hauled in a career-high 45 receptions for 506 yards and three touchdowns preparations, the excitement around Johnson’s innovative approach and the potential it unlocks for every player, from the quarterback to the massive offensive tackle, continues to grow, fueling optimism for a brighter offensive future in Chicago.