Chicago Bears rookie Luther Burden III officially chose jersey number 87 for the upcoming season, despite his preference for the number 3, which carries personal significance. The number 3, however, is retired by the Bears in honor of Hall of Famer Bronko Nagurski. With 14 numbers already retired and several more potentially heading in the same direction, Burden humorously noted that most good options were unavailable.

Other notable players who have donned the number 87 for the Bears include Ed O'Bradovich, Emery Moorehead, and Tom Waddle, all of whom contributed significantly to the franchise's legacy. As a second-round pick, Burden aims to carve his own path in an already storied history.