The Chicago Bears have an interesting array of receiver options after adding Ray-Ray McCloud in free agency as a response to the loss of Luther Burden for the preseason. It is interesting to look at the team's current options and consider whether or not any pieces could be pushed off the roster based on the presence of McCloud.
This brings us to looking at the receiving options fans should expect to make the roster and exactly how the depth chart should shake out when the regular season finally gets underway.
Whether you want to put Odunze or Luther Burden in the one spot is simply an opinion. There is no debating that the young receivers are the primary weapons at the position, with fans waiting to see who takes the bigger leap forward. Putting Odunze at the one spot here is based simply on Burden coming off an injury that will cause the pass catcher to miss the preseason and allow Odunze to step into the primary role early in the season, building chemistry and a bit of momentum after a frustrating 2025 season.
Whether it was Ben Johnson comparing the pass catcher to Amon-Ra St. Brown or the consistent camp plays, it appeared Burden was setting up for a season to put himself on the map among the league's better impact playmakers. The injury is concerning, but there is still reason for a high level of excitement based on the camp performance, trust from Caleb Williams, and an undeniable level of speed that, when healthy, will give the pass catcher a great chance to get consistently open.
The next player on the depth chart is making an undeniable push for a starting role, but it makes the most sense to push Raymond in during the season's early weeks. Ben Johnson has a long relationship with the pass catcher based on their time together in Detroit; it seems at least probable that Raymond is going to start the season as the third option at the position and provide a veteran presence for what is an incredibly young position group.
Thomas has been slowed by an injury in recent days, but fits perfectly in Johnson's system, showing off his impressive speed and ability to find open space. It wouldn't be shocking to see the rookie make it difficult for Johnson to keep him out of the starting lineup. This is the development fans are hoping for, understanding the value of having another consistent option on a rookie contract.
Walker has already spoken throughout camp about his growing confidence and the expectation that he can have a more consistent impact. Whether or not this proves to be the case, there is no reason to consider taking Walker off the team's roster when you look at the big moments from the 2025 season, the trust from Williams for those moments to happen, and the hope that the year ahead will invite a meaningful leap forward.
This is the spot the most in question, and the most sensible decision is Miller. The veteran has experience playing in big playoff games and offers speed that Johnson so clearly covets. You are already taking a risk with so many young players filling out the depth chart. Having both Miller and Raymond rostered gives you a bit of veteran stability without blocking your top targets from producing at the expected level.
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This article was originally published on www.dawindycity.com as The Bears' wide receiver pecking order is coming into focus .
