A Rocky Start: Examining the Chicago Bears’ Rookie Challenges in Training Camp 2025

The Chicago Bears’ 2025 training camp in Lake Forest, Illinois, has been anything but smooth sailing. With high expectations following a promising draft class and the leadership of head coach Ben Johnson, the team has encountered unexpected hurdles—particularly regarding the availability and contract status of key rookies. The absences of wide receiver Luther Burden III, defensive end Shemar Turner, and cornerback Zah Frazier have raised concerns about the team’s preparation and long-term prospects. This report examines the challenges, their potential impact, and how the Bears can navigate these early setbacks.

The Absence of Key Contributors: Injury Woes Plague the Offense and Defense

The most pressing issue for the Bears is the absence of three high-profile draft picks: Luther Burden III, Shemar Turner, and Zah Frazier. These players represent significant investments in the team’s future, and their unavailability disrupts the coaching staff’s ability to evaluate and integrate them into the system.

Luther Burden III: Hamstring Concerns and Missed Opportunities

Luther Burden III, the explosive wide receiver from Missouri, is currently sidelined with a hamstring injury—a recurring issue that also affected him during OTAs and minicamp. Hamstring injuries are notoriously tricky, with a high risk of recurrence if not properly managed. While Coach Johnson remains optimistic about a short-term absence, the uncertainty surrounding Burden’s return is a major concern.

Burden’s speed and playmaking ability were expected to elevate the Bears’ offense, particularly in the red zone and on deep routes. His absence leaves a void in the receiving corps, depriving the team of valuable practice reps and limiting the quarterback’s ability to build chemistry with him. If Burden’s injury lingers, the Bears may need to rely more heavily on veterans like DJ Moore and rookie Colston Loveland, who was already limited on Day 1 of camp.

Shemar Turner: Ankle Injury and Defensive Line Uncertainty

On the defensive side, Shemar Turner, a promising defensive end, is nursing an ankle injury sustained during practice. Ankle injuries vary in severity, and the Bears’ medical staff will need to assess his condition carefully to determine a return timeline. Turner’s size, athleticism, and pass-rushing potential made him a key addition to the defensive line, and his absence deprives the team of valuable reps.

With Turner out, other defensive linemen—including undrafted free agents and late-round picks—will have an opportunity to step up. This could be a chance for players like Dominique Robinson or Kingsley Enagbare to prove their worth and secure a roster spot. However, the longer Turner remains sidelined, the more the Bears risk falling behind in defensive development.

Zah Frazier: Personal Absence and Cornerback Competition

Cornerback Zah Frazier is excused from practice for personal reasons, though the details remain undisclosed. While the Bears have not provided specifics, any absence during training camp can disrupt a rookie’s development, particularly at a position as demanding as cornerback.

Cornerbacks require precision, technique, and a deep understanding of defensive schemes. Missing practice time could set Frazier back in his quest to earn a roster spot, especially with competition from veterans like Jaylon Johnson and Kyler Gordon. If Frazier’s absence extends, the Bears may need to rely more on other young corners, such as Tyrique Stevenson, to fill the void.

The Contractual Holdout: Lingering Uncertainty Surrounding Luther Burden III

While injuries have sidelined Turner and Frazier, Luther Burden III faces a different challenge: a contractual holdout. As of late July, Burden remains the only unsigned Bears rookie, raising concerns about missed practice time and delayed development.

The delay in signing Burden’s contract is particularly notable, as other rookies drafted around his position—including Ozzy Trapilo and Shemar Turner—have already agreed to terms. The reasons behind the holdout remain unclear but could involve disagreements over guaranteed money, signing bonuses, or other contract terms.

The absence of a signed contract prevents Burden from fully participating in training camp activities, including practices, team meetings, and film sessions. This lack of engagement could hinder his development, making it harder for him to learn the Bears’ offensive playbook, build rapport with his teammates and quarterback, and adapt to the speed and physicality of the NFL.

A Silver Lining: Opportunity Knocks for Other Rookies and Veterans

Despite the challenges posed by the absences of Burden, Turner, and Frazier, their misfortune presents opportunities for other rookies and veterans to step up and make an impression on the coaching staff.

Wide Receiver Competition Heats Up

With Burden sidelined, other wide receivers on the roster—such as Colston Loveland, who was limited on Day 1—will have increased opportunities to showcase their skills. This could benefit players like Keenan Isaac, Velus Jones Jr., and even undrafted free agents looking to make the roster. The added reps and attention could help these players accelerate their development and potentially carve out a role in the Bears’ offense.

Defensive Line Depth Gets a Test

Turner’s absence creates an opening for other defensive linemen to shine. Players like Dominique Robinson, who had a strong preseason last year, or even rookie defensive tackles like Gervon Dexter, could seize the opportunity to prove their worth. The added reps and evaluation opportunities could help these players gain valuable experience and potentially secure a roster spot.

Cornerback Competition Intensifies

Frazier’s absence means more reps for other cornerbacks, including Tyrique Stevenson, Kyler Gordon, and Jaylon Johnson. This could be a chance for Stevenson, a 2023 draft pick, to solidify his role as a starter or for Gordon to further establish himself as a reliable option. The increased competition could push the entire secondary to improve, benefiting the team in the long run.

Navigating the Turbulence: The Coaching Staff’s Response

The Bears’ coaching staff, led by Ben Johnson, faces the task of navigating these early training camp challenges while keeping the team on track. Johnson’s approach to these setbacks will be crucial in shaping the team’s mindset and fostering a culture of resilience.

Balancing Optimism and Caution

Johnson has demonstrated a measured and optimistic approach, expressing hope for a quick return for Burden while acknowledging the need to be cautious with hamstring injuries. This balanced approach is essential in managing expectations and preventing unnecessary pressure on the injured players.

Adapting Practice Plans

The coaching staff must adjust practice plans and strategies to account for the absence of key rookies. This may involve redistributing reps, focusing on developing other players, and emphasizing fundamental techniques and concepts. The staff must also ensure that the absent players remain engaged through film study and individual workouts.

Maintaining Open Communication

Effective communication with the absent players is critical. The coaching staff must provide support and guidance while the players recover from injuries or resolve contract disputes. Keeping them engaged and motivated, even when they can’t fully participate, will be key to their long-term success.

Conclusion: Weathering the Storm and Building for the Future

The Chicago Bears’ 2025 training camp has been marked by unexpected challenges, including injuries and a contractual holdout that have sidelined key rookies. While these setbacks are frustrating, they also present opportunities for other players to step up, for the coaching staff to demonstrate adaptability, and for the team to build resilience.

As the Bears navigate these early hurdles, it is essential to maintain a long-term perspective. The development of young players takes time, and setbacks are an inevitable part of the process. By focusing on fundamentals, fostering a positive team culture, and adapting to changing circumstances, the Bears can weather this early storm and continue building a foundation for future success. The true measure of this team will not be how they respond to adversity, but how they emerge from it—stronger, more unified, and ready to compete at the highest level.