Brian Burns, OLB-DE, Florida State #99
6037, 235, 4.66
Notes: From Fort Lauderdale, FL. Made an immediate impact as a freshman in 2016, with 24 tackles, 9.5 sacks, 1 FF and 1 blocked kick. Started all 13 games at defensive end, totaling 48 tackles, 13.5 TFL, 4.5 sacks, 3 FF and 2 blocked punts, in 2017. Continued productivity in 2018, with 28 tackles, 11.5 TFL, 9 sacks, 2 PBU,1 Fr and 3 FF through 8 games.
Positives: Excellent pass rusher. Great length. Nice height and long arms. Explosive off the snap. Difficult for blockers to get into. Has an effective inside spin move. Avoids blockers with quickness. Very quick twitch and fast off the edge. Can dip his shoulder, bend and flatten the corner. Closes quickly. Gets into the backfield and disrupts. Good down-the-line and backside pursuit. Locates the ball well. Good motor and intensity.
Negatives: Lean build and lacks bulk at the point of attack. Best getting upfield and has some limitations in pass coverage as a linebacker.
Summary: Very good edge prospect who can be a 3-4 linebacker or an end in a 4-3. Has drawn comparisons to Myles Garrett and also exhibits some Danielle Hunter-type freakish physical ability. First-round prospect.