Bears Rookie Luther Burden III Delivers Big Hit on Bills’ Veteran at Tough Preseason Night

In a high-octane Preseason Week 2 clash against the Chicago Bears on August 17, 2025, at Soldier Field, our heart-and-soul safety Damar Hamlin faced a fiery challenge from Bears rookie Luther Burden III. Early in the second quarter, the Bears’ second-round pick (No. 39 overall) unleashed a jaw-dropping block on Hamlin, clearing the path for a 1-yard touchdown run by running back Brittain Brown. The NFL lit up X with the moment: “Brittain Brown runs in to extend the @ChicagoBears lead”, with Burden’s electrifying block stealing the show.

Burden’s raw speed and power sent shockwaves through the end zone, but Hamlin, our fifth-year veteran, never backed down. Despite the Bills’ tough 38-0 loss, Hamlin’s grit kept the secondary fighting, proving why he’s the heartbeat of this team.

With stars like Josh Allen and key defensive backs taking a breather, the Bills tested their depth against a Bears offense that came out swinging. Chicago, led by rookie QB Caleb Williams and fueled by Burden’s versatility, set the tone early. Hamlin, rocking his iconic No. 3, stood tall in the secondary, battling through a relentless Bears attack. This game was a wake-up call, but it’s fueling our squad as we gear up for the final preseason showdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on August 23, 2025.

Bills Mafia, you know Damar Hamlin is built for the toughest moments. From his inspiring 2023 comeback to a stellar 2024 season (89 tackles, 2 interceptions), Hamlin embodies Buffalo’s never-say-die mentality. Burden’s block was a highlight for Chicago, but Hamlin’s response—getting back up and leading the defense—showed why he’s our warrior. As he said post-game, “Every snap is a chance to grow. We’re coming back stronger.”

Even in a tough night, the Bills showed flashes of fire:

• RB Frank Gore Jr. powered through with 50 yards on 8 carries and 31 yards on 4 receptions, proving he’s a dual-threat playmaker.
• CB Jacob Parrish and CB Dorian Strong each racked up 8 tackles, holding it down in a shorthanded secondary.
• WR Tyrell Shavers sparked with a 22-yard catch, hinting at big things to come.

These young guns are laying the groundwork for a Bills squad ready to dominate when the regular season kicks off on September 7, 2025, against the New York Jets.