Jager Burton is a 6’4 and 323-pound offensive lineman from the University of Kentucky. He is from Lexington, Kentucky, and attended Frederick Douglass High School. He was named First-Team All-State by the AP, Louisville Courier-Journal, and Kentucky Sports Radio and a finalist for the 2020 Sports Illustrated All-America team. He was also selected to play in the All-American Bowl. He did have a leg injury in 2024 against South Carolina that caused him to miss the following games against Georgia and Ohio.
Burton has a good frame for his position. He also shows good athleticism. He ran a 4.94 at the NFL Combine and scored a 9.91 RAS (out of 10), which measures athleticism. He has proven to be one of the most athletic offensive linemen in this year’s draft. His best trait is his position versatility. He started every game this past year at center, but also had significant snaps at both right and left guard during his college career. Burton shows a high football IQ. He can identify his assignments pre- and post-snap. Burton works well with teammates when double-teaming opponents and reaching the second level. He is also a good pass protector. He engages with his opponents and maintains his blocks in pass pro. Burton also does a good job at reading twist up front, passing off his opponents. He also shows no stiffness in game, and combining that with his athleticism makes him a more promising prospect at the next level.
He keeps a wide base, which makes him unbalanced at times. That affects him especially in his pass blocking. When a defender bull rushes, he gets off balance and loses his footing, causing the pocket to collapse. He also doesn’t seem to be very physical on tape. He does not strike his opponents and does not keep his feet moving when engaging opponents. In the run game, Burton has good hand placement but struggles with maintaining his blocks.
Overall, Burton is an athletic offensive lineman who needs to improve run blocking.
Scheme Fit and Team Fit: Wide Zone Run
Burton fits a team that likes to run outside the tackles. The Rams and 49ers would be a good fit.
NFL Player Comp: Tyler Linderbaum
Linderbaum and Burton both possess a similar build and athletic ability.
Projection: Role Player/Backup
I don’t see him as being a starter in the NFL. He will be a serviceable backup due to him being able to play multiple positions.
Grade and Round Projection: 3.58, Day 3 Pick
Burton initially had a grade of 3.88, but I rounded down to a 3.5 because I don’t believe he has starter capabilities. He will be a day 3 pick.
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