Lions WR Jameson Williams Delivers Brief Message to Bears Rookie Luther Burden

Chicago Bears rookie wide receiver Luther Burden III recently shared a moment of connection with Detroit Lions wideout Jameson Williams, his former high school teammate. The two once played together at Cardinal Ritter Prep in St. Louis back in 2018, with Williams as a senior and Burden just beginning his high school football journey as a freshman. Now, they’re set to become NFC North rivals, representing opposing teams in one of the league’s most competitive divisions.

Despite being on different sidelines, Burden and Williams still share a strong bond. Both wideouts now have a unique link through Ben Johnson, the Bears’ new head coach, who previously worked as the Lions’ offensive coordinator and played a pivotal role in Williams’ development. Williams, who topped 1,000 receiving yards last season for the first time, gave Burden a ringing endorsement of Johnson’s offensive system.

“He said I’m really gonna enjoy it,” Burden recalled during his first rookie minicamp session, according to Scott Bair of Marquee Sports Network. “So … let’s go.”

Burden Views Williams as a Mentor

Burden, who hails from East St. Louis and was once a five-star recruit, chose to attend Missouri over national programs like Alabama and Georgia. He made an immediate impact as a freshman in 2022 with 45 receptions for 375 yards and six touchdowns, adding value in the return game as well.

Throughout his college years, Burden continued to lean on Williams for guidance.

“He’s always been someone I could reach out to for advice,” Burden said. “We’ve kept in touch, worked out together — he’s like a big brother.”

In 2023, Burden’s sophomore campaign was outstanding — he hauled in 86 passes for 1,212 yards and nine touchdowns, earning First-Team All-SEC honors. While his numbers dipped slightly in 2024 (61 catches for 676 yards and six scores), his overall production at Mizzou cemented his place as one of the program’s all-time top receivers. Over three seasons, he finished with 192 receptions, 2,263 yards, and 21 touchdowns.

His impressive showing at the NFL Combine, including a 4.41-second 40-yard dash and a quick 1.54-second 10-yard split, boosted his draft stock. Though projected to go in the first round, he was picked in the second — where the Bears may have landed a steal.

Ben Johnson’s Offense Could Maximize Burden’s Talent

Known for adapting his schemes to fit his players’ strengths, Ben Johnson has earned a reputation as a creative offensive mind. His past work with young stars like Jameson Williams bodes well for Burden’s transition to the NFL. He’ll also be working alongside other promising talents like second-year receiver Rome Odunze and rookie quarterback Caleb Williams.

Johnson’s collaborative style and player-friendly system could help Burden thrive. If he stays healthy, Burden has the tools and support system to develop into a key contributor for the Bears. And with Jameson Williams’ endorsement, expectations are high that Burden will flourish under his new head