ESPN’s Ben Solak just released his All-Rookie rosters in order to “highlight standout debut seasons”, and a pair of Chicago Bears made the list, both on offense.
Luther Burden, the second-round pick out
of Missouri (#39 overall), made the first team alongside Tet McMillan of the Panthers (#8) and Emeka Egbuka (#19). Burden is making a case for increased usage in a crowded receiver room, trailing only Puka Nakua and Jaxon Smith-Njigba in yards per route run among receivers with at least 25 routes. While ESPN notes that Burden was eased into the game and therefore took a bit of time to arrive, it’s clear now that he’s a key weapon in the offense moving forward.
Meanwhile, Colston Loveland (#10 overall) earned second-team honors behind the Browns’ Harold Fannin, jr (#67 overall). Solak admitted that it was “razor thin” between Tyler Warren and Colston Loveland, but pointed out that Loveland “has the edge as a blocker and catcher outside of his frame”, noting the standout performance against the 49ers as a decision-maker. It’s worth noting that per Sumer Sports, Loveland exceeds both Fannin and Warren in yards per route run, placing 8th overall among all tight ends with at last 25 routes.
