Burton took the field two weeks removed from a groin strain. He had in two receptions for five yards while playing only 43 percent of the Bears' offensive snaps.
What was important for Burton was regaining confidence in his movement after being limited for two weeks. As for his performance?
"The whole game was rusty," Burton said. "Honestly, I didn't play well personally. But I'm excited to get back out there."
Taking the field was a step forward for Burton, who hadn't played in a game since the 2018 regular-season finale. He has been plagued by injuries nearly the entire calendar year. Burton missed the Bears' wild-card round playoff loss on Jan. 6 with a groin injury. The issue lingered before he underwent sports hernia surgery in the spring.
Burton arrived at training camp less than three months after the surgery and still not in football shape. He only had a brief time in August of full form before the latest groin strain occurred.
Now, the focus for Burton isn't on health but instead contributing to the Bears' offense in a key way. What will health for Burton mean for his play at Washington on Monday?
"I hope a lot better," he said.
Signed in March 2018 to a four-year deal, Burton posted 54 receptions for 569 yards and six touchdowns last season.