The Chicago Bears are set to kick off training camp in one week, but they still have three rookies who remain unsigned — but they’re not alone.
Most of the NFL’s second round rookies have yet to sign their rookie contracts, which includes Chicago’s three second-round selections — wide receiver Luther Burden III, offensive tackle Ozzy Trapilo and defensive tackle Shemar Turner.
There are still thirty of the NFL’s 32 second-round picks who remain unsigned as they aim for the same fully-guaranteed deals that first-round picks are afforded. It certainly doesn’t help that the two second rounders who have signed their deals — Houston Texans receiver Jayden Higgins and Cleveland Browns linebacker Carson Schwesinger — were awarded fully-guaranteed deals.
With Bears rookies set to report to training camp on Saturday (three days before veterans), there’s a concern that the contract negotiations could turn into a holdout before the first practice on July 23. That’s not exactly ideal for some rookies primed for immediate impacts. Trapilo is competing for the starting left tackle job, Burden hasn’t been on the practice field since rookie minicamp due to injury and Turner could also miss out on valuable reps.
According to Over The Cap, Burden is expected to make about $10.9 million through four years, Trapilo $7.7 million and Turner $7.2 million.
Now, all eyes are on who signs first and whether Burden, Trapilo and Turner will also be under contract and in camp come Wednesday.
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This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: Holdout watch begins for Bears’ second-round rookies
Reporting by Alyssa Barbieri, Bears Wire / Bears Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
