Denzel Burke NFL Draft Profile

 

Denzel Burke Scouting Report

 

2024 NFL Draft Measurements

6’1″ 190 lbs.

Denzel Burke 40 time: 4.44 (estimate)

Strengths

Size

Denzel Burke, the Ohio State cornerback, possesses an impressive physical stature that immediately grabs attention. Standing at a notable height and displaying a well-built frame, Burke’s size provides him with a natural advantage in matchups against opposing wide receivers. This physicality allows him to disrupt the timing and spacing of routes. This makes it challenging for receivers to create separation. Burke’s size is a valuable asset, particularly in press coverage situations where he can use his length to jam receivers at the line of scrimmage and redirect their routes.

Length

Complementing his size, Denzel Burke’s length is a significant strength in his game. His long arms and wingspan allow him to effectively disrupt passing lanes. Thus making it difficult for quarterbacks to complete throws in his vicinity. Burke’s ability to extend and reach for the ball adds an element of difficulty for opposing receivers. This forces them to adjust and potentially lead to incompletions or turnovers. This length also contributes to his effectiveness in contested catch situations, providing him with an advantage in 50/50 matchups.

Speed

Burke’s speed is a standout attribute that adds an extra dimension to his game as a cornerback. His ability to mirror receivers and stay in their hip pocket down the field makes him a formidable defender in man coverage. Burke’s speed allows him to recover quickly if a receiver gains separation initially, making him a reliable option in preventing big plays. This asset is particularly valuable in the NFL, where the passing game is heavily emphasized, and cornerbacks need to keep pace with speedy wideouts.

Ball Skills

Denzel Burke exhibits impressive ball skills, showcasing a natural ability to track, locate, and make plays on the football. His timing and anticipation contribute to his effectiveness in breaking up passes and creating turnovers. Burke is not merely a cornerback who prevents receptions; he actively seeks opportunities to create game-changing plays. His ball skills make him a threat to generate turnovers and contribute to a team’s overall defensive success, an invaluable quality in the NFL.

Weaknesses

Tackling

One area of improvement for Denzel Burke lies in his tackling technique. While he is not shy about getting involved in run support or making tackles in the open field, his form and consistency in bringing down ball carriers could benefit from refinement. In the NFL, tackling is a fundamental skill for cornerbacks. This is especially true in run defense and after opponents make catches. Burke’s development in this area will be crucial to round out his skill set. This will ensure he can contribute effectively in all facets of the game.

Footwork

Despite his speed and athleticism, Burke’s footwork could use refinement. This is particularly true in transitions and change of direction. Sharp and precise footwork is vital for cornerbacks, as it allows them to mirror receivers, break on the ball, and navigate through various route combinations effectively. Improving his footwork will enhance Burke’s ability to stay in phase with receivers, recover quickly when necessary, and excel in both man and zone coverage schemes at the NFL level.

Final Thoughts on Denzel Burke Scouting Report

In conclusion, Denzel Burke’s scouting report reveals a prospect with a compelling combination of strengths and areas for improvement. His size, length, speed, and ball skills position him as a promising cornerback prospect for the NFL. However, refining his tackling technique and footwork will be crucial for Burke to maximize his potential and become a well-rounded cornerback capable of making a significant impact at the professional level. As he transitions from Ohio State to the NFL, Burke’s continued development in these areas will be closely monitored by teams seeking to bolster their secondary with a dynamic and versatile cornerback.

Denzel Burke NFL Comparison

Paulson Adebo

Denzel Burke Draft Stock

Burke looks to be behind other cornerbacks like Kool-Aid McKinstry but should be drafted in the top twenty picks near Cooper DeJean.