Luther Burden III is one of the most electrifying wide receiver prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft class. The 5’11”, 205-pound Missouri product has consistently showcased his dynamic playmaking ability and versatility throughout his collegiate career.
College Career
Burden arrived at Missouri as a highly touted five-star recruit and the program’s highest-rated receiver prospect ever. He made an immediate impact as a freshman in 2022, becoming the first player nationwide since 2008 to record two receiving touchdowns, two rushing touchdowns, and a punt-return touchdown in the same season.
His sophomore campaign in 2023 was a breakout year, as Burden amassed 86 receptions for 1,212 yards and 9 touchdowns. This performance earned him First-Team All-SEC and Second-Team All-America honors. He demonstrated remarkable consistency, posting five consecutive 100+ yard games, a feat achieved by only one other player in Missouri history.
Burden’s junior season in 2024 saw a statistical regression, with 61 receptions for 676 yards and 6 touchdowns. However, this decline can be attributed to factors beyond his control, including injuries and an overall regression in Missouri’s passing game.
Strengths
1. Playmaking Ability: Burden is electric with the ball in his hands, consistently ranking among the nation’s leaders in run-after-catch yardage.
2. Versatility: He has experience as a receiver, rusher, and returner, showcasing his ability to impact the game in multiple ways.
3. Ball Skills: Burden possesses excellent ball-tracking ability and reliable hands, making him a threat in various passing situations.
4. Route Running: While primarily operating from the slot, Burden has shown the ability to create separation with his agility and quickness.
5. Character: Coaches and teammates praise Burden for his work ethic and leadership qualities.
Areas for Improvement
1. Outside Receiver Skills: While excelling in the slot, Burden will need to develop his ability to win consistently on the outside at the NFL level.
2. Size: At 5’11”, Burden may face challenges against larger NFL defensive backs, particularly in contested catch situations.
3. Consistency: His production dip in 2024 raises some questions, though external factors likely played a significant role.
NFL Projection
Burden projects as a dynamic slot receiver and offensive weapon at the NFL level. His skill set draws comparisons to players like Percy Harvin and Jarvis Landry – versatile, do-it-all receivers who can create mismatches and generate explosive plays.
His ability to contribute in the return game adds to his value, potentially allowing him to make an immediate impact while he develops as a receiver. Offensive coordinators will likely be intrigued by Burden’s potential to be used in various formations and play designs, creating opportunities for him to showcase his playmaking ability in space.
While he may need some time to fully transition to the rigors of NFL coverage, particularly when facing press coverage on the outside, Burden’s natural talent and proven production suggest he has the potential to become a featured weapon in an NFL offense.
Draft Projection
Most draft analysts project Luther Burden III as a first-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft. His combination of production, athleticism, and versatility make him an attractive option for teams looking to add explosiveness to their offense.
In his most recent mock draft, Chris Trapasso of CBS Sports projected Burden to the Indianapolis Colts with the 13th overall pick, noting that he would provide a “dynamic weapon” for young quarterback Anthony Richardson.
Given his skill set and potential, Burden could be a target for teams picking in the middle-to-late first round, particularly those with established quarterbacks looking to add another dimension to their passing game.
Conclusion
Luther Burden III enters the 2025 NFL Draft as one of the most intriguing wide receiver prospects available. His exceptional playmaking ability, versatility, and proven production at the collegiate level make him a likely first-round selection.
While he may need some refinement to reach his full potential as an outside receiver in the NFL, Burden’s skill set as a slot receiver and returner should allow him to contribute immediately. His ability to create yards after the catch and impact the game in multiple ways will make him an attractive option for teams looking to add explosiveness to their offense.
As the draft approaches, Burden’s performance in pre-draft workouts and interviews will be crucial in solidifying his draft position. If he can alleviate concerns about his 2024 production dip and demonstrate continued development in his route-running and outside receiver skills, Burden has the potential to be one of the first wide receivers selected in the 2025 NFL Draft.
