'Why Treylon Burks?'
In the mold of Demaryius Thomas -- meshed with alignment versatility of Laviska Shenault Jr.
Release variation & separation quickness
Burks likes to use a quick decel step at the line of scrimmage to get inside of defenders. Small changes in tempo can be a big advantage for Burks due to how abruptly he can enter acceleration.
There isn't a lot of variation with Burks early in routes, at the next level this will be a point of emphasis.
It won't be this easy in the NFL, however, if a defender bites on inside leverage it's going to be a big play.
Consistency in contested catch situations & in-air athleticism
The ability to track and shield from contact is a part of Burks' game that sticks out on tape.
5 XL gloves and a 6'2 225lbs frame is tough to get in front of.
The subtle redirect to make it easier to come back for the football is important to note here.
As big and as physical as he is, there is a technical nuance that Burks consistently displays when the ball is in the air that allows him to be dominant in 50/50 situations.
Again, we see the length & leaping ability of Burks.
He continually makes difficult receptions look routine.
Play speed & Capabilities after the catch
Treylon Burks reached 22.6 mph on this play. The fastest speed achieved in college football during the 2021 season.
Burks is going to walk into the NFL as an athlete who is in the 99th percentile in terms of play speed.
Covering 10 yards every .90 seconds at max velocity.
If there is one game throughout Burks' career to note, it's this one.
This past season against Alabama, Burks was the best player on the field.
His 4.55 40-yard dash didn't stop him from putting up 179 yards and two touchdowns on the Crimson Tide.
One on one with no safety help is a touchdown regardless of who is covering him.
Has the physical tools to separate vertically, doesn't matter the cushion either.
Aside from the linear capabilities of Burks we can see that he is a fluid, and reactive mover as well.
After the catch, the combination of these two factors is going to make him a primary option around the line of scrimmage on smokes, and quick hitting routes.
As a first-level option, Burks is going to constantly be available due to the threat he creates vertically.
His play strength and speed are going to be day one assets.
Through break transitions
Initially, Burks will be better deployed as a slot option.
Free releases aid him when creating separation in the middle of the field.
There are a lot of questions surrounding his route running, however, the threat of Burks vertically will make it easier to develop a more well-rounded tree.
I do like how he sells the fade by going hips to the boundary then breaking back inside.
Burks' size is going to make him an intriguing red zone option.
We know he can win 50/50 balls, but developing his skillset transitioning out of level one concepts is going to be key in his early career development.
Ascension grades
Tier 1: 75.00 & over -- Gold Jacket potential
Tier 2: 65.00 - 74.99 -- All-pro ceiling
Tier 3: 55.00 - 64.99 -- Pro-bowl ceiling
Tier 4: 49.98 - 54.99 -- High floor primary receiving option
Tier 5: 44.96 - 49.97 -- High ceiling / High-risk prospect
Tier 6: 39.50 - 44.95 -- Niche role player / spot producer
Tier 7: 39.49 & below -- Depth player with low ceiling
