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Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Joe Burnett (Central Florida) - 2009 NFL Draft Pick #168 by PIT

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Joe Burnett (2009 NFL Draft)

Player Profile:

  • Name: Joe Burnett
  • College: University of Central Florida (UCF)
  • Position: Cornerback / Return Specialist
  • Height: 5'9"
  • Weight: 185 lbs

Overview:

Joe Burnett was a standout player at UCF, known for his versatility as both a cornerback and a return specialist. His college career saw him make a significant impact on defense as well as in special teams, showcasing his speed and agility.

Strengths:

  • Ball Skills: Burnett displayed excellent hands and awareness when it came to intercepting passes, making him a dangerous player in the secondary.
  • Return Ability: His experience as a kick and punt returner provided added value, as he had a knack for finding openings and making big plays.
  • Athleticism: Burnett possessed good speed and agility, allowing him to keep up with receivers and make quick cuts on returns.
  • Work Ethic: He was known for his dedication to improving his game, making him a coachable prospect.

Weaknesses:

  • Size: At 5'9", Burnett was shorter than many of his peers at the cornerback position, which could be a disadvantage against taller receivers.
  • Physicality: While he was competitive, there were concerns about his ability to tackle larger receivers and perform in press coverage.
  • Experience Level: Coming from a mid-major program, there were questions about how he would adjust to the higher level of competition in the NFL.

Draft Projection:

Burnett was projected to be selected in the later rounds of the 2009 NFL Draft, likely in the 5th to 7th round range. His return abilities could make him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their special teams, while his skills in coverage could provide depth at the cornerback position.

Conclusion:

Joe Burnett's combination of skills as a cornerback and return specialist made him a compelling prospect heading into the 2009 NFL Draft. His performance at UCF showcased his potential, but concerns about his size and level of competition faced would ultimately influence his draft stock.