Bears Signed Prized Rookie – But One Contract Still in Question

Jul 18, 2025 7:26 AM EDT

Bears sign two key second-round picks, but one high-profile rookie still waits for his deal.

It’s been a wild year for second-round draft picks, filled with tension and slow-burn negotiations. At one point, 30 of the 40 unsigned rookies hailed from the second round, sparking plenty of frustration across the league. But today, Bears fans can finally exhale—there’s a little light at the end of the tunnel, and Chicago made a couple of moves that should turn some heads.

According to Albert Breer, the Bears locked in their prized rookie, Ozzy Trapilo, a towering tackle out of Boston College.

Brayden Keim #74 and Ozzy Trapilo #75 / Getty Images

The four-year deal comes with some serious security—the first two years fully guaranteed and 72% of the third year locked in. Breer also revealed that Trapilo will compete in the left tackle mix this summer, giving the Bears a much-needed boost in the trenches.

And it’s not just the contract that’s creating buzz. Trapilo impressed during OTAs with his sharp mental game and smooth technique. Head coach Ben Johnson was practically glowing in a clip posted by Da Bear Cave, calling Trapilo one of the smartest young players he’s worked with.

And just when you thought that was it, the Bears doubled down. Per Ian Rapoport, Shemar Turner, a versatile defensive tackle out of Texas A&M, also inked his rookie deal.

Shemar Turner / Getty Images

Turner brings grit and versatility to Chicago’s defensive line rotation—a key move for a unit looking to rebound.

That leaves one storyline still simmering: wide receiver Luther Burden III remains unsigned. No new details yet, but with Trapilo and Turner officially in the fold, the spotlight on Burden just got a whole lot brighter.

Luther Burden III / Getty Images — Source: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

It’s crucial to get him signed and into training camp as soon as possible, especially since he missed all of OTAs and will need some serious catch-up work before the season kicks off. The Bears have made major strides today, but the job isn’t finished—closing the gap with Burden will complete the puzzle and set this rookie class up for success.