The NFL Draft is a pivotal event for many young football players dreaming of going pro. Some, after standout college careers, feel confident they’ll be selected early. Others, however, experience the sting of a draft slide—as was the case for several prospects in the 2025 edition.
One of the most high-profile cases was Shedeur Sanders, who eventually went in the fifth round. But there were others who slipped quietly under the radar—players whose names weren’t called on TV, who were passed over again and again without much attention.
One of those players was Luther Burden III, now a member of the Chicago Bears. After experiencing a disappointing slide in the draft, Burden didn’t hold back. He made it clear he’s carrying a chip on his shoulder and is ready to prove the teams who overlooked him made a mistake.
NFL Rookie Sends ‘Payback’ Message
Though it was just a brief statement, Burden’s words carried weight: “Everybody who passed up on me got to pay.” He’s channeling that frustration into motivation, staying focused and believing in himself now that he’s made it to the NFL.
Luther Burden III #87 of the Chicago Bears speaks to the media after the Chicago Bears Rookie Minicamp at Halas Hall on May 09, 2025 in Lake Forest, Illinois.
“All I need is me to believe in myself. I don’t need everybody else to believe in me. As long as I believe in myself, I’m gonna handle business,” Burden said. “I had this attitude since I’ve been playing sports. It’s just in me.”
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Where Was Burden III Drafted?
Burden III was selected in the second round, 39th overall. While he was projected by some as a first-round talent, falling to the second round isn’t necessarily bad—it just slightly lowers his rookie contract value compared to a first-round selection.
