BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — Cornerback Denzel Burke spent four seasons at Ohio State shadowing some of the top receivers in college football. Burke is battle-tested, compiling 51 starts for the Buckeyes.
The 2023 first team All-Big Ten performer believes all that experience is a big advantage as he gets ready to transition to the NFL.
“Really just being comfortable and confidence,” Burke said. “That’s all that matters for us — just being confident in yourself and being confident in the scheme that you’re in. Also, how you play your role in the scheme, how other people are playing the role in the scheme, and just playing at a very high level and just believing in yourself always.”
Burke has the type of size and physicality that NFL teams look for in a cornerback. He said having a short memory on the field is a big reason for his success in college.
“Not everything’s going to be perfect,” Burke said. “But even though you try to make everything perfect, just continue to just next play mentality and continue to keep pushing forward.”
Draft analysts said his best fit in the NFL will be with a team that runs a lot of zone defense, which is something the Bills do. Burke did meet formally with Sean McDermott and his staff at the NFL Scouting Combine.
“It went well,” said Burke. “It was a great meeting. Watched some ball, talked a little bit, and really happy to be able to have me as a formal.”
Burke is projected to be a 4th round draft pick.
Josh Reed is an award-winning journalist who has served as News 4’s Sports Director since 2015. See more here.