The Next Phase: OTAs Begin

The Chicago Bears have transitioned into organized team activities (otas) this week, marking a meaningful step in evaluating thier roster, especially the rookie class. Following a brief rookie minicamp from May 9-11, the coaching staff, led by offensive coordinator Declan Doyle, is set to delve deeper into the capabilities of newcomers like wide receiver Luther Burden III and tight end Colston loveland.

Doyle characterized the rookie minicamp as more of a cursory glance than a deep analysis of skill sets. The real evaluation, he emphasized, begins now.

Shaping the Offense: What to Expect

otas provide a crucial possibility for the Bears to integrate rookies into their offensive scheme and assess their potential roles. The focus will be on pushing these players beyond their comfort zones and exploring their versatility.

Rookie Minicamp,we’re exposed to a couple of them in Luther (Burden III) and Colston (Loveland),but,really,as we get into OTAs,that’s where we’re going to really explore what these guys can do,where we see the direction of this offense going and starting to ask them to be a little bit outside of their comfort zone,maybe things that they haven’t done before,and really start to shape that and what that looks like.
Declan Doyle, Chicago Bears Offensive coordinator

These on-field practices, featuring seven-on-seven drills and full squad sessions against veteran players, are voluntary.However, given that this is the first year under new offensive coordinator ben Johnson, high attendance is anticipated.

rookies Under the Microscope

While veterans will also be evaluated, the spotlight shines brightest on the rookies. The Bears already possess a solid understanding of what their veteran players can offer, even within a different offensive system. The key questions surrounding the rookies revolve around their ability to quickly learn and adapt to the complexities of the NFL game.

Doyle emphasized the importance of versatility when assessing Burden and Loveland:

I think trying to give them a lot, see what they can handle. Rather than, narrowly, you’re going to be doing this, and we’re going to pigeonhole you, we’re going to ask you to do a number of things, and we’re going to see if you’re good at it, and if you are, then I think that that can be something that we can add to our repertoire.
Declan Doyle, Chicago Bears Offensive Coordinator

Luther Burden III: Explosive Potential

The Bears’ staff is already impressed with Burden’s athleticism. Doyle described him as an explosive athlete and really exciting. His collage tape showcased his playmaking abilities, with Doyle noting, I think, when the ball was in his hands, he was one of the best guys that we evaluated in this process.

The critical factor for Burden will be his ability to quickly adjust his routes against various coverages.As Doyle explained, He has to learn the system first, and he has to learn our way of doing things. The coaching staff will play a vital role in his advancement:

But, like any of these guys, it takes all of us to help each and every one of them. That’s really going to be the biggest thing.
Declan Doyle, Chicago Bears Offensive Coordinator

If Burden can process the offense and make adjustments as quickly as he demonstrates on film, he could become a significant contributor as a rookie slot receiver.

Colston Loveland: Overcoming Injury

Questions remain about the extent to which Loveland’s surgically repaired shoulder is still affecting him. While he participated in some drills during rookie camp, he was held out of certain activities.OTAs will provide a clearer picture of his recovery and readiness for contact.

Loveland faces a steep learning curve, especially given the demanding nature of the tight end position in Johnson’s offense. Doyle emphasized the comprehensive skill set required:

For tight ends, that is a challenging position to be able to pick up because you are involved in run game, protection, pass game.We’re giving these guys kind of a bite-sized piece of what we’re going to give the veterans here, but really not skipping any steps.
Declan Doyle, Chicago Bears Offensive coordinator

The approach to Loveland’s development mirrors that of quarterback caleb Williams, ensuring he is comfortable with the communication, alignment, and decision-making processes within the offense.

Veteran Wide Receiver Dynamics

With the arrival of rookie Rome Odunze, questions arise about the Bears’ personnel packages. While it’s assumed Odunze will be on the field in 12-personnel alongside D.J. Moore, the team may opt for a more traditional slot receiver in certain situations. It remains to be seen how the Bears will utilize Moore, Odunze, Burden, and veterans Olamide Zaccheaus and Devin Duvernay in various formations.

A key objective this offseason has been to increase the team’s overall offensive speed. The additions of Duvernay and Zaccheaus bring a new level of speed to the slot position, contrasting with the veteran savvy of former Bear Keenan Allen.zaccheaus ran a 4.49 40-yard dash, Duvernay a 4.40, and Burden a 4.41 during their respective combine or pro day workouts.

A Crowded Wide Receiver room

The wide receiver position is arguably the most competitive on the Bears’ roster. Veteran acquisition Miles Boykin, Maurice Alexander (who has experience in Johnson’s offense), and Tyler Scott (a 2023 fourth-round pick) will all be vying for playing time alongside Moore, Odunze, Burden, Zaccheaus, and Duvernay. The team also has undrafted rookies and holdovers like Samori Toure and John Jackson in the mix.

The Tight End Perspective

The Bears’ starting tight end has yet to speak to the media as the team drafted Loveland in the third round. It will be interesting to hear his thoughts on a potential decrease in his target share with Loveland playing the move-tight end role. The distinction between traditional and move-tight end positions is often overlooked, but it can significantly impact playing time and responsibilities.