Luther Burden III, one of the most highly anticipated wide receiver prospects in the nation, is ready to take the next step in his football journey after an impressive three-year career at the University of Missouri. Burden, a 5-star recruit out of East Saint Louis, Illinois, chose the Tigers over prestigious programs like Alabama, Georgia, and Ohio State.
Ranked as the second-best receiver and the 14th overall recruit in the country, Burden immediately lived up to the hype. As a true freshman, he led the team in touchdown receptions and finished second in catches, establishing himself as a key player in Mizzou’s offense. His standout 2023 season saw him rack up over 1,200 yards and finish seventh in the nation in yards per route run, solidifying his status as one of college football’s top wideouts.
Though his production dipped slightly in 2024 due to a shift to a more run-heavy offense, Burden’s ability after the catch remained undeniable. His 6.1 yards after catch per reception ranked among the best in the draft class, and his 30 broken tackles led the nation, showcasing his toughness and playmaking ability.
Burden’s route running, hands, and deep-ball skills further bolstered his NFL draft stock. He has proven himself capable of running a full range of routes and excelling against press coverage, even as he primarily played in the slot over the last two seasons. Despite a lack of size as a traditional jump-ball target, Burden’s low center of gravity and ability to shake off defenders make him a dynamic threat on any route.
As Burden prepares for the NFL draft, he is expected to be a top target for teams looking to add a versatile and explosive receiver to their roster. His ability to make plays after the catch and his overall football instincts have drawn comparisons to some of the league’s best, and he’s poised to make an immediate impact at the next level.
With a strong combination of skills, competitiveness, and a proven track record, Luther Burden is one of the most exciting receiver prospects in this draft class, and NFL teams will certainly be keeping a close eye on him as they look to upgrade their receiving corps.
