Nate Burleson Reflects on NFL Career and Weighs in on Current Quarterbacks
Former NFL wide receiver Nate Burleson, whose career in the league spanned 11 seasons, remains a prominent voice in football analysis. During his time on the field, Burleson amassed an impressive 5,630 receiving yards and caught 39 touchdowns. His standout season came in 2004 when he broke the 1,000-yard mark, highlighting his capabilities as a top receiver.
Throughout his career, Burleson had the opportunity to catch passes from several notable quarterbacks, including Daunte Culpepper, Matt Hasselbeck, and Matthew Stafford. Reflecting on his time with Stafford, Burleson expressed high regard, saying, "I do feel like he's gonna be really good." This sentiment underscores Stafford's ongoing recognition as a talented quarterback in the league.
Shifting focus to the league's current elite quarterbacks, Burleson commented on the reigning Super Bowl MVP, Patrick Mahomes, who leads the Kansas City Chiefs. Burleson didn't shy away from the possibility of teaming up with Mahomes, enthusiastically responding "Definitely" when asked about such a notion.
Burleson also shared insights on Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens. Analyzing Jackson's dynamic play style, Burleson described the challenge defenders face, stating, "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." Such vivid depiction demonstrates the complexity and excitement Jackson brings to the field.
When discussing Joe Burrow, the quarterback for the Cincinnati Bengals, Burleson conveyed admiration for his unique presence, simply stating, "I like his swag." This brief yet telling remark captures Burrow's distinctive and confident style that has endeared him to fans and analysts alike.
Interestingly, Burleson took notice of Michael Penix Jr., currently the backup quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons. Observing Penix Jr.'s prowess, Burleson remarked, "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." This acknowledgment of Penix Jr.'s skill set and potential highlights the depth of talent emerging within the league.
Additionally, Burleson spoke on Kirk Cousins, a veteran quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons, though the comments were more reserved compared to his analysis of others.
The conversation also veered towards Russell Wilson, known for his previous success with the Seattle Seahawks, including a Super Bowl victory. Currently in a quarterback battle with Justin Fields for the Pittsburgh Steelers' starting position, Wilson continues to be a figure of intrigue. Burleson praised Wilson, asserting, "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." With 334 career touchdown passes, Wilson's experience and talent remain highly regarded.
Burleson's reflections offer a unique perspective, blending firsthand experience with deep analysis of the NFL's past and present quarterbacks. His commentary not only sheds light on the nuances of the game but also enriches the ongoing dialogue around current football stars and their evolving legacies.