The Chicago Bears extended their winning streak to four games with a win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday in Week 9. However, concerns emerged after the game regarding Luther Burden’s health, as head coach Ben Johnson provided a worrying update on the star wide receiver’s condition.
ESPN reporter Courtney Cronin reported that Johnson confirmed after the game that Burden had suffered a concussion.
“Luther Burden has a concussion, per Ben Johnson,” Cronin wrote.
Burden sustained the injury late in the fourth quarter after absorbing a hard hit from Buccaneers defensive lineman Rueben Bain Jr. The wide receiver remained down on the field for some time before trainers eventually helped him to his feet and escorted him off. He was then taken to the blue medical tent for further evaluation and did not return for the remainder of the game.
Despite being forced to leave the game early, Burden put together an impressive outing against Tampa Bay. He recorded seven catches on nine targets for 97 yards and a touchdown before his departure.
His absence for any period would be an unfortunate blow to Johnson's squad, particularly after the Bears also dealt with injury concerns of Tyrique Stevenson and Kyler Gordon during Sunday's matchup.
Burden's recovery will now be Chicago's main focus as he enters the NFL's five-step concussion protocol. The wide receiver must progress through each stage and receive medical clearance before he can return to the field.
The Bears do have some additional time to monitor his recovery, with their Week 10 bye giving Burden an opportunity to make progress without immediately facing another game. Nevertheless, having an extra week off does not necessarily mean he will be ready for Chicago's next matchup.