There is no experience in the NFL like on the job, first-hand experience, and for Chicago Bears rookie safety Dillon Thieneman, he's got quite the test he faces every day at practice.
Thieneman, a first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, will have high expectations leading the team's secondary, and he's been preparing for his first regular season while going up against offensive weapons such as wide receiver Luther Burden.
Chicago's offense is expected to be one of the most high-powered units in the league, and with head coach Ben Johnson's unique variety of offensive plays, Burden has been testing Thieneman all throughout camp. Thieneman explained the challenges of covering Burden, who is moved all over the field.
"With his speed, they’re moving
him around a lot," Thieneman said. "His ability to accelerate into the way he’s breaking, you never know which way he’s going or doing, he’s able to stress you vertically."
Burden is going to be a big weapon of use for the Bears offense this season, alongside the other top pass catchers in Rome Odunze and tight end Colston Loveland. The second-year receiver's speed and ability to separate from defenders not only gives opponents something to prepare for, but also is a training lesson for his rookie opposition which can only help Thieneman in the long run.
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This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: Dillon Thieneman on what it's like battling Bears WR Luther Burden
