Overview
Position: Cornerback
Height: 6’0”
Weight: 193 lbs
School: Miami Hurricanes
Artie Burns 2016 NFL Draft Profile
If there was ever a player in this year’s draft class with something to play for, its Artie Burns.
Burns lost his mother to a heart attack late in the Hurricanes season, and that more than likely influenced his decision to forego his senior season and declare for the draft. Burns stated when declaring for the draft, “Due to my mom’s sudden passing and my father being incarcerated, I now have custody of my two younger brothers and my son to raise. It is my responsibility to be the financial supporter my family needs to continue our day-to-day lives.”
A four-star recruit out of Miami Northwestern High School, Burns was the three time Florida state champion in the 110 meter hurdles. In 2012, he would be named a USA Today All-USA high school track & field All-American for a second time after setting the national sophomore record in the 110 meter hurdles with a time of 13.35.
On the gridiron, Burns had his best season registering 80 tackles and breaking up 12 passes. Burns originally committed to Alabama before committing and electing to stay close to home by attending Miami:
“I’ve been thinking about it,” Burns said. “Me, my coach and my mom, we had talked about it. They thought I should take my time and look at other schools, see what schools have a better opportunity for me. If I decommitted, it’s going to help me look at other schools better.”
Burns, speaking on his decision to decommit from Alabama in 2012
In Coral Gables Burns became a starter his sophomore year after posting 17 tackles and two sacks as a true freshman. Last season, he led the ACC in interceptions with six along with 26 solo tackles. After snagging his third interception in Miami’s game against Nebraska, Burns became the first Hurricane since the legendary Sean Taylor to record an interception in three straight games.
Combine Performance
At the combine earlier this month, Burns ran a 4.46 40, tying him for ninth among cornerbacks while clocking a 4.40 forty on his first attempt. In regards to his performance in positional drills WalterFootball.com stated that Burns “showed loose hips with the ability to break on the ball,” was “fluid and athletic,” and “also has drawn positive reviews off the field.”
Artie Burns (@MiamiHurricanes) can run with the best of 'em.
He clocks a 4.40u 40 in his first attempt. #NFLCombine https://t.co/4mG9eCnNfY
— NFL (@NFL) February 29, 2016
Strengths
- Cocky demeanor, common amongst cornerbacks – the defensive glory position.
- Unparalleled athleticism combined with speed due to his record setting years as a dual sport athlete in high school and college.
- Finishes tackles.
- Soft hands.
- With the untimely passing of his mother, Burns has now become the “man of the house.” If there is any first round pick with more to play for, its Burns.
Weaknesses
- Can be grabby in pass coverage.
- Demeanor and attitude has led to unsportsmanlike penalties.
- Sometimes relies too much on his God-given talents than position skill.
- Lack of direction due to improper technique and stance.
NFL Comparison: David Amerson, Oakland Raiders
Teams With Need at Position: Jacksonville Jaguars, Oakland Raiders, Pittsburgh Steelers, Miami Dolphins, Dallas Cowboys, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Seattle Seahawks, Detroit Lions
Projection: Late first round
Bottom Line
Carrying the weight of his family on his shoulders, the team that selects Artie Burns in the draft will have a formidable player who will be ready to step in and fulfill his role at cornerback. His athleticism is unmatched and will give teams an additional weapon in their arsenal not only on defense but special teams as well.
