Chicago Bears rookies report for 2024 camp on July 19. Luther Burden III is cleared, while Tyler Scott and Devin Duvernay face a fierce roster battle. Get updates.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The long wait is over, Bears fans. The sounds of cleats on pavement returned to Lake Forest on Saturday as the 2025 rookie class officially reported to Halas Hall. With them comes a wave of anticipation, headlined by the welcome news that receiver Luther Burden III is fully cleared for action, ready to join second-year QB Caleb Williams as the new-look offense begins to take shape.
Head coach Ben Johnson emphasized that all players will get a fresh evaluation as they compete for roster spots.
As the rookies settled in, Head Coach Ben Johnson set a clear tone for training camp: nothing is guaranteed. His message of a 'fresh evaluation' for every player puts everyone on notice, particularly those on the roster bubble. The most prominent battleground is at wide receiver, where third-year man Tyler Scott faces a steep climb. With DJ Moore, Rome Odunze, Luther Burden III, and Olamide Zaccheaus viewed as locks, Scott is likely competing with Devin Duvernay for the final spot. Duvernay's value as a special teams ace gives him a significant advantage, meaning Scott will need a stellar camp to avoid the practice squad or being claimed by another team.
While the news of rookie receiver Luther Burden III being a full participant is a major boost for the offense, the injury report for the offensive line is far more concerning. Burden's availability is crucial as he missed OTAs and needs every rep to get up to speed in Ben Johnson's offense. However, the optimism is tempered by updates on two key blockers. Tight end Colston Loveland's status is uncertain as he rehabs a shoulder injury. More alarmingly, offensive tackle Braxton Jones is not expected to be ready for the start of camp following offseason surgery, leaving a significant hole on the left side and raising questions about depth and continuity.
While much of the offseason hype has centered on the revamped offense, the defense has a new anchor ready to make his presence felt. Two-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Grady Jarrett, the team's marquee free-agent signing, is set to lead the defensive front. His arrival provides a massive boost to the run defense and brings invaluable veteran leadership to a unit that will line up alongside superstar Montez Sweat. The Jarrett-Sweat combination promises to be a nightmare for opposing offenses and will be a focal point when the pads come on.
With the rookies reporting today and veterans arriving on July 22, the countdown to on-field action is on. Fans can get their first look at the 2025 squad at the first open practice on Friday, July 25. The schedule features 11 total open practices, highlighted by exciting joint sessions with the Miami Dolphins and Buffalo Bills in August, which will serve as a key measuring stick for the team's progress.
With the rookies now in the building, all eyes turn to Tuesday, July 22, when the veterans are set to report. The first open practice on July 25 will be our first real glimpse at how these pieces fit together. From the health of the offensive line to the development of the rookies and the intensity of the roster battles, the storylines are set. The 2025 season starts now.
