Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Stephen Burton (Long Beach CC) - 2011 NFL Draft Pick #236 by MIN


What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Stephen Burton (2011 NFL Draft)

College: Long Beach City College
Position: Wide Receiver

Overview:

Stephen Burton was an intriguing prospect heading into the 2011 NFL Draft, showcasing impressive physical attributes and potential as a wide receiver. His performance at Long Beach CC garnered attention from NFL scouts, leading to discussions about his draft stock.

Strengths:

  • Size and Speed: Burton possessed a good combination of height and speed, making him a potential deep threat in the passing game.
  • Athleticism: His agility and ability to create separation from defenders were notable, allowing him to make plays downfield.
  • Versatility: Capable of playing multiple receiver positions, Burton’s adaptability was seen as an asset for offensive schemes.

Weaknesses:

  • Limited Experience: Coming from a junior college, Burton had less experience against top-tier competition compared to his peers from Division I schools.
  • Route Running: His route running was considered raw, needing refinement to become a more polished receiver at the professional level.
  • Consistency: There were concerns about his hands and ability to make tough catches in contested situations.

Draft Projection:

Stephen Burton was projected to be selected in the later rounds of the draft, with some teams showing interest in developing him as a project player. His physical traits made him an appealing candidate for teams looking to bolster their receiving corps with potential upside.

Conclusion:

While Burton faced challenges due to his background and experience level, his athletic profile and potential as a wide receiver made him a name to watch during the 2011 NFL Draft. Teams were intrigued by his ability to develop into a reliable target with the right coaching and opportunity.