Brandon Burton Scouting Report

Brandon Burton is just a junior. At this point he has less than two years of starting experience under his belt, but he could end up being one of the top cornerbacks in the class of 2011 if he opts to go pro early. After spending his redshirt freshman campaign mostly on special teams, Burton stepped into a starting role in 2009. During that season he was second in the Mountain West Conference in pass breakups and fourth in passes defended. Burton also tallied 47 tackles, 4.0 tackles-for-loss, a sack and an interception.

Opposing offenses are avoiding Burton as much as possible in 2010, but he is still putting up some impressive numbers. Through eight games he has 28 tackles, four pass breakups, five passes defended and one interception. What makes Burton so special, and a candidate to leave Utah early for the NFL, is his speed. Burton can run a 4.35 40.

Burton is a fine cover corner who has enough size and a ton of speed. Yet, he can also use that speed to get into the backfield and is a very effective blitzer and run stopper. Burton may not be a first round talent quite yet, but he is oozing with potential and should be a second round selection if he opts to enter the 2011 draft.

3/15 Update: Burton cemented his spot as a second rounder with his fine showing at the NFL combine. He ran a solid 4.5 40 and looked good in most of the other drills. His lack of strength and willingness to take gambles may make some shy away from him, but Burton is a player who can learn a new system and be a very good corner.