From the field to the broadcast booth, Nate Burleson’s career has been marked by impressive achievements and insightful commentary. A former NFL wide receiver, Burleson hung up his cleats after 11 seasons, having amassed 5,630 receiving yards and 39 touchdowns. His tenure in the NFL saw him play with some of the game’s most distinguished quarterbacks, including Daunte Culpepper, Matt Hasselbeck, and Matthew Stafford.
Burleson’s standout season came in 2004 when he broke the coveted 1,000-yard mark, a testament to his skill and consistency. Reflecting on his career, Burleson often speaks highly of the quarterbacks he’s played with, singling out Matthew Stafford in particular. "I do feel like he's gonna be really good," Burleson notes, highlighting the talent and potential that Stafford brought to the game.
Future Stars and Current Legends
Transitioning into his role as a football analyst, Burleson continues to share his keen insights into the game and its players. When asked about the prospect of teaming up with Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, Burleson’s enthusiasm is palpable. "Definitely," he says, acknowledging Mahomes as a reigning Super Bowl MVP and one of the NFL's elite quarterbacks.
Burleson also weighs in on other notable quarterbacks in the league. Speaking on Lamar Jackson, Burleson explains the unique challenges and opportunities presented by Jackson's dynamic style of play. "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."
Another quarterback who has caught Burleson’s attention is Joe Burrow of the Cincinnati Bengals. "I like his swag," Burleson says, summarizing the confidence and skill that Burrow brings to the table.
High Praise for Up-and-Coming Talent
Burleson’s evaluations extend to up-and-coming talent as well. Michael Penix Jr., currently the backup quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons, has garnered Burleson’s admiration. "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 remarks, pointing out Penix's precision and the intrigue of having a left-handed quarterback.
In the same breath, Burleson lauds Russell Wilson's capabilities, despite the seasoned quarterback being in a position battle with Justin Fields for the starting job at the Pittsburgh Steelers. "I still think Russell Wilson throws one of the prettiest deep balls," Burleson comments. He adds optimistically, "I think he's gonna do great with the Steelers, so I'll go Russ," reflecting his confidence in Wilson's abilities and experience, highlighted by Wilson's Super Bowl champion status and 334 career touchdown passes.
A Veteran’s Perspective
Burleson’s insights are not limited to those he’s played with. He also speaks highly of Kirk Cousins, the veteran quarterback also playing for the Atlanta Falcons. Cousins, known for his consistency and leadership, remains a respected figure in the league and someone Burleson respects greatly.
Throughout his career and subsequent transition into analysis, Nate Burleson has maintained a deep passion for football and an astute understanding of its players. His ability to break down the game, combined with his firsthand experience, makes his commentary invaluable to fans and players alike. As Burleson continues to share his expertise, his perspectives on the game are bound to inspire and educate future generations, keeping the spirit of the NFL alive and thriving.