Nate Burleson carved out a notable career in the NFL, spending 11 seasons on the field as one of the league’s dynamic wide receivers. Amassing 5,630 yards and catching 39 touchdowns, Burleson’s tenure in professional football is underscored by his standout 2004 season, during which he broke the 1,000-yard mark. Throughout his career, he developed connections with some of the game’s top-tier quarterbacks, including Daunte Culpepper, Matt Hasselbeck, and Matthew Stafford.
Burleson’s admiration for Stafford is evident. Reflecting on their time together, Burleson remarked, "I do feel like he's gonna be really good." This sentiment captures not only the potential Burleson sees in Stafford but also hints at the chemistry they shared on the field.
A Glimpse into Burleson's Thoughts on Current QBs
Transitioning from his own career, Burleson remains invested in the game by keeping a close eye on today’s quarterback talent. One of the young stars who has caught Burleson’s attention is Patrick Mahomes, the Kansas City Chiefs’ quarterback. Lauded as a reigning Super Bowl MVP and one of the NFL’s elite quarterbacks, Mahomes’ prowess garners respect from veterans like Burleson. When asked about the possibility of teaming up with Mahomes, Burleson’s response was succinct yet telling: "Definitely."
Connecting with Lamar Jackson
Lamar Jackson, the electric quarterback for the Baltimore Ravens, also impresses Burleson. He envisions a successful partnership with Jackson, imagining the challenges defenders would face. "If I ran one route and he starts running in the pocket, that DB’s eyes are gonna go directly to the quarterback. It's so hard to stop a receiver running one route, so when we get into scramble route and I spin out of that go route and go deep -- that DB is gonna lose me for a second," Burleson explained. His insights reveal his deep understanding of the game and the nuances that make Jackson’s playstyle so formidable.
Joe Burrow and Michael Penix Jr.: Emerging Talents
Another quarterback Burleson has taken note of is Joe Burrow of the Cincinnati Bengals. Praising Burrow’s demeanor, Burleson remarked, "I like his swag," highlighting the confidence and composure that Burrow brings to the field. Such attributes are essential for a quarterback leading a team in high-pressure situations.
Meanwhile, Michael Penix Jr., currently the backup quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons, has also caught Burleson's eye. "Throws a pretty, a pretty football. And he's gonna be one of the most accurate quarterbacks. And I've never played with a left-hander," Burleson stated. This comment underscores Penix Jr.’s potential and the unique challenge that left-handed quarterbacks can present to defenses.
Veterans and New Challenges
Kirk Cousins, the veteran quarterback for the Falcons, continues to be a mainstay in the league, bringing experience and steadiness to his team. On the other hand, in the Steel City, a new dynamic unfolds as Russell Wilson competes with Justin Fields for the starting job with the Pittsburgh Steelers. A Super Bowl champion with 334 career touchdown passes, Wilson is a seasoned competitor whose skills are well respected by his peers. Burleson, reflecting on Wilson’s capabilities, commented, "I still think Russell Wilson throws one of the prettiest deep balls. I think he's gonna do great with the Steelers, so I'll go Russ."
Burleson’s reflections provide a unique perspective on the evolving landscape of NFL quarterbacks. His experiences on the field, combined with his keen eye for talent, offer valuable insights into the league’s current and future stars. As he continues to analyze and commentate on the game, his observations remain a valuable resource for fans and analysts alike.