Treylon Burks entered the NFL with significant hype, a first-round draft pick of the Tennessee Titans in 2022 tasked with filling the void left by the traded A.J. Brown. Possessing a rare blend of size, strength, and surprising athleticism for his 6-foot-2, 225-pound frame, Burks showcased tantalizing potential during his standout career at the University of Arkansas.
However, his professional journey thus far has been marked by flashes of brilliance interspersed with injury setbacks, leading to a complex narrative surrounding his development and future in the league as of late April 2025.
From Razorback Star to First-Round Pick
Treylon Burks’ football journey began in Warren, Arkansas, where he was a dominant force as a wide receiver in high school, amassing impressive receiving numbers and touchdowns. His talent made him a highly sought-after recruit, and he ultimately chose to stay in-state, committing to the Arkansas Razorbacks.
His career in Fayetteville saw him quickly emerge as the team’s primary offensive weapon. From his freshman year in 2019 through his junior season in 2021, Burks consistently led the Razorbacks in receiving. His sophomore campaign in 2020 saw him catch 51 passes for 820 yards and seven touchdowns in just nine games, establishing him as one of the premier receivers in the Southeastern Conference (SEC).
His junior year in 2021 was his most prolific, as he hauled in 66 receptions for 1,104 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns, earning First-Team All-SEC honors and becoming only the fourth Razorback in history to record a 1,000-yard receiving season. His blend of size, physicality after the catch (averaging a healthy 7.6 yards after catch in 2020), and ability to win contested catches drew comparisons to current NFL stars like A.J. Brown.
Entering the 2022 NFL Draft, Burks was widely regarded as a first-round talent. His scouting reports highlighted his strong hands, impressive route running for his size, and his ability to make plays both in the short and deep passing game.
While some questioned his top-end speed (his 4.55-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine was considered adequate but not elite), his overall skillset and potential to be a versatile weapon made him an attractive prospect. The Tennessee Titans, seeking a replacement for the recently traded A.J. Brown, selected Burks with the 18th overall pick in the draft.
Navigating the NFL Landscape and Injury Challenges
The high expectations placed on Burks as a first-round pick and the direct successor to a star receiver created immediate pressure. His rookie season in 2022 showed glimpses of his potential, as he recorded 33 receptions for 444 receiving yards and one touchdown in 11 games.
However, a turf toe injury placed him on injured reserve for a portion of the season, hindering his ability to build consistent momentum. Notably, he had a standout performance against the Green Bay Packers in Week 11, catching seven passes for 111 yards.
The 2023 season presented further challenges for Burks. An LCL sprain in his knee during preseason practice sidelined him for several games early in the year. In the 10 games he played, he managed 16 receptions for 221 yards, failing to find the endzone. While his yards-per-reception increased to 13.8, the overall production was lower than anticipated for a player of his draft pedigree.
The 2024 season was unfortunately cut short for Burks due to a knee injury sustained in practice in October. After playing in just five games and recording four catches for 34 yards, it was announced in December 2024 that he underwent season-ending surgery to repair his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). This significant injury raised further concerns about his durability and ability to consistently contribute at the NFL level.
As the 2025 offseason and the beginning of the 2025 season approach in late April 2025, the primary focus surrounding Treylon Burks is his recovery from the ACL surgery and his potential role within the Titans’ evolving offense.
The Path Forward for Burks in Tennessee
As he embarks on the recovery process from his ACL surgery, the 2025 season will be a crucial juncture for Treylon Burks. His ability to return to full health and regain the explosiveness and athleticism he displayed at Arkansas will be paramount. The Titans’ new coaching staff will also play a significant role in his development and utilization within their offensive scheme.
The team’s investment in Burks as a first-round pick suggests they will likely give him opportunities to prove his value once he is healthy. However, consistent production will be essential for him to solidify his role as a key contributor in the receiving corps. The emergence of other receivers on the Titans roster will also create competition and raise the stakes for Burks to perform.
The narrative surrounding Treylon Burks remains one of potential versus production. The raw talent and physical tools are undeniable, but his ability to stay healthy and consistently translate his college success to the NFL level will ultimately determine his long-term future and impact with the Tennessee Titans. The 2025 season will be a significant chapter in his story, as he aims to overcome his latest injury setback and finally establish himself as the impactful playmaker many envisioned when he entered the league.
FAQs
Who is Treylon Burks?
Treylon Burks is a professional American football player who plays as a wide receiver for the Tennessee Titans in the NFL. Known for his size, athleticism, and playmaking ability, he was a standout college player before entering the league.
Where did Treylon Burks play college football?
Burks played at the University of Arkansas, where he established himself as one of the top receivers in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), earning All-SEC honors thanks to his explosive plays and versatility.
When was Treylon Burks drafted?
He was selected in the first round (18th overall) of the 2022 NFL Draft by the Tennessee Titans, who had just traded star receiver A.J. On draft day, Brown was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles.
What is Treylon Burks known for on the field?
Burks is known for his physical strength, contested catches, and ability to gain yards after the catch. He’s a big-bodied receiver with solid hands and a natural ability to track deep balls.
How did his rookie season go?
His 2022 rookie season was up and down, as he dealt with injuries and had to adjust to the NFL. Despite the challenges, he showed flashes of potential, including a few standout games with deep receptions and clutch catches.
To read more, Click here
Leave a Reply