Nate Burleson's Journey Through the NFL and His Quarterback Choices
Nate Burleson, former NFL wide receiver, had a storied career spanning 11 seasons. His tenure in the league saw him catching passes from some remarkable quarterbacks, including Daunte Culpepper, Matt Hasselbeck, and Matthew Stafford. Over his career, Burleson amassed 5,630 receiving yards and 39 touchdowns, with his standout season being in 2004 when he broke the 1,000-yard mark.
Reflecting on his playing days, Burleson fondly remembered the quarterbacks he teamed up with. "I do feel like he's gonna be really good," Burleson said of Matthew Stafford, a testament to his admiration for the skills and potential of his former teammate.
As a commentator and analyst now, Burleson often weighs in on current NFL talent. Recently, he shared his thoughts on the quarterbacks he would love to catch a pass from in today's game.
Mahomes, Jackson, and Burrow: Top Choices
Among Burleson's top choices is Kansas City Chiefs' Patrick Mahomes. Known for his incredible playmaking ability, Mahomes has captivated fans and players alike. Burleson didn’t hesitate in his enthusiasm, stating, "Definitely," when asked about the possibility of teaming up with Mahomes. It’s easy to see why—the reigning Super Bowl MVP and one of the league’s elite quarterbacks, Mahomes epitomizes the modern quarterback.
Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens also made Burleson’s list. Jackson's dynamic ability to stretch plays with his legs presents a unique challenge for defenses. Burleson explained his excitement about connecting with Jackson, saying, "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 Burleson admires greatly is Joe Burrow of the Cincinnati Bengals. Burleson appreciates both Burrow’s skills and his charisma, succinctly summing it up with, "I like his swag."
Young Talents and Veteran Leaders
Burleson’s list wasn't limited to established stars; he also expressed interest in catching passes from Michael Penix Jr. Currently the backup quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons, learning under veteran Kirk Cousins, Penix Jr. has caught Burleson’s eye. "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 noted, highlighting both his aesthetic appreciation and curiosity.
Another fascinating choice is Russell Wilson, currently in a quarterback battle with Justin Fields for the Pittsburgh Steelers starting job. Wilson's veteran presence and historic performance have left a lasting impression on Burleson. "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," Burleson remarked. The Super Bowl champion with 334 career touchdown passes indeed remains a force to be reckoned with.
Cherishing a Legacy and Looking Forward
The insight from Burleson into his experiences and preferences sheds light on the complexities and joys of the wide receiver position. His career statistics and the quarterbacks he worked with highlight a remarkable NFL journey.
As he transitions into his role as an NFL analyst, his perspectives bring a nuanced understanding of the game. Whether talking about young talents or seasoned veterans, Burleson’s assessments carry the weight of experience and respect within the football community.
From discussing top contemporary quarterbacks to sharing personal anecdotes, Nate Burleson continues to influence the sport he loves, providing invaluable insights and celebrating the evolving landscape of the NFL.