Chicago Bears 2025 training camp looms with rookies Ozzy Trapilo, Shemar Stewart, & Luther Burden III unsigned. Get the latest on the contract standoff.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
With Chicago Bears training camp just around the corner, a sense of anticipation is mixed with a healthy dose of uncertainty. Key pieces of the 2025 puzzle remain unassembled as all three of the team's second-round draft picks are still without contracts. Meanwhile, the health of crucial players and the pressure on veteran leaders to bounce back are dominating the conversation, setting the stage for a pivotal preseason.
'We’ll really know in camp once I get out there, doing a lot more stuff.' - Colston Loveland on his shoulder injury.
A league-wide trend has hit Halas Hall, as all three of the Bears' 2025 second-round picks—OL Ozzy Trapilo, DL Shemar Stewart, and WR Luther Burden III—remain unsigned. They're part of a group of 30 second-rounders across the NFL holding out for more guaranteed money in their rookie deals. While there's a general expectation that contracts will be finalized before players report to camp, the delay is a lingering storyline that fans are watching closely. The sooner these key rookies can get on the field, the better.
Once the contracts are settled, attention will shift to on-field performance, starting with rookie tight end Colston Loveland. The promising rookie gave a cautiously optimistic update on his shoulder injury, acknowledging the real test is yet to come. 'It’s been good,' Loveland said. 'There haven’t really been live bullets flying yet.' His integration into the offense is a key storyline, as is the team's potential interest in adding more firepower. Rumors continue to swirl about a possible trade for 49ers receiver Jauan Jennings, who is reportedly looking for a new deal, adding another layer of intrigue to the Bears' offensive plans.
On the other side of the ball, the pressure is on the defense to recapture its 2023 magic. After leading the NFL with 22 interceptions that season, the secondary's production fell to just 11 picks in 2024. Defensive Coordinator Allen has made it clear that a return to form starts with Jaylon Johnson. Allen praised the star cornerback's leadership and skill, stating the secondary's success hinges on his playmaking ability. Of course, a leaky pass rush didn't help last season. For the defense to truly contend, it'll need a tandem effort: Johnson locking down receivers and the defensive line, hopefully bolstered by a signed Shemar Stewart, generating consistent pressure.
While the team prepares for the 2025 season, the front office is also looking far into the future. The Bears sent out a stadium survey to fans this week, a move seen by many as a welcome and overdue step. By seeking fan input on amenities and features for a potential new home, the current leadership is signaling a commitment to fan experience that was absent in previous stadium discussions. It's a long-term project, but a positive sign of the organization's direction.
While the front office looks decades ahead with stadium plans, the immediate focus is squarely on the next few weeks. Getting the second-rounders signed, ensuring Loveland is ready for contact, and seeing Johnson re-establish his dominance are the first critical hurdles. The +3500 Super Bowl odds reflect a team with a steep climb ahead, making every move and every player's health in the run-up to camp absolutely vital for any chance at surprising the league in 2025.
