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Luther Burden III | WR | Missouri

Height: 5’11”
Weight: 208 lbs
Draft Projection: Mid 1st
Notable Accomplishment: 2023 First-Team All-SEC

Pros: If the NFL Draft was 6 months ago, Burden would have probably been a top-5 pick. Despite a down statistical season, he still displayed the same traits we have been accustomed to seeing from him. His combination of agility, body control, and ball skills make him a difficult one-on-one assignment for any defensive back. Burden’s acceleration, whether it be off the snap or after a catch, is second to none in college football, as he can go from 0 to 90 almost effortlessly. His ability to line up anywhere in the formation gives offensive coordinators a lot of opportunities to get creative and scheme plays to get him the ball in space. For a smaller receiver, Burden displays impressive toughness, as he will battle through contact down the field to come down with the football. His compact build allows him to break tackles in the open field at a high success rate as well.

Cons: Burden saw a major dip in production in 2024 to the tune of over 500 yards and 3 touchdowns less than his breakout 2023 campaign. A lot of variables played into his lack of productivity, and very few were in his control, but it is definitely a question he will be pushed on throughout the draft process. Another concern scouts likely have is that he gets impatient at times. There are instances on tape where he is caught looking upfield before securing the ball, resulting in a dropped pass. I would also like to see Burden do a better job of getting off press coverage. He is short, but he is not tiny. He has the physicality to beat press coverage, but the results have been inconsistent in that regard.

Overview: If Burden had replicated his 2023 production, he does not fall outside the top 10. I still believe he is a lock to go in Round 1, but he could definitely be in danger of sliding outside the top 20 selections. His NFL comparison may be a little lofty in Steve Smith, Sr., but even though Burden is a little bigger than Smith, the two receivers have nearly identical strengths and play styles. Burden can easily put up WR1 production in the NFL, but the scheme will matter.

NFL Comparison: Steve Smith, Sr.