Overview
- Luther Burden III was carted off after the Week 17 loss to the 49ers, but Johnson said, “We’re hopeful he’ll be just fine this week.”
- Early evaluations labeled the injury a quad issue “not thought to be serious,” per ESPN’s Adam Schefter, with further testing arranged.
- NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported Burden was “tired, but OK,” indicating no immediate long-term concern.
- The NFC North–winning Bears are weighing whether to play or rest key receivers in Week 18, with seeding still at stake for the No. 2 or No. 3 spot.
- Burden’s breakout (8 catches, 138 yards, 1 TD in Week 17) has lifted his season to 44 receptions for 617 yards and 2 TDs, drawing first-team all-rookie recognition and strong efficiency marks.