Chicago Bears wide receiver Luther Burden III, 22, is expected to miss the preseason after a groin injury in practice. The team believes he should return for the regular‑season opener against refs Carolina Panthers, according to sources speaking with ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

Burden was injured during Saturday’s session when he tangled with cornerback Tyrique Stevenson on a red‑zone one‑on‑one. Stevenson landed on his back and stayed on the ground for several moments in visible pain. Burden received sideline treatment and finished practice after pulling himself out of an 11‑on‑11 drill.

The 2025 second‑round pick caught 47 passes for 652 yards and two touchdowns as a rookie last season. Despite the setback, the Bears remain confident he’ll be ready for the opener, and the injury is not expected to derail his season.

Receiver Zavion Thomas is also dealing with knee soreness from a 7‑on‑7 drill, but it’s not serious and he isn’t expected to miss much time, a source said. The Bears are monitoring both players as they gear up for the new season.