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Cardinals rookie Jordan Burch’s impact went beyond the box score in preseason opener

Originally posted on Burn City Sports
By Tanner Tortorella | Last updated Aug 10, 2025 8:35 PM ET

GLENDALE – Saturday’s preseason opener against the Kansas City Chiefs was a stellar debut for the 2025 rookie class. Despite first-round pick Walter Nolen absent, the five other defensive rookies all made impacts on the field. Second-round pick Will Johnson didn’t allow a catch, while seventh-round pick Kitan Crawford recorded a massive interception in the endzone to help secure the win.

However, one of the most underrated performances in the opener was third-round pick Jordan Burch. The box score shows that Burch only recorded one tackle, but his impact goes beyond the stat sheet.

What Burch showcased in Cardinals win:

Burch stands at 6’4 and weighs 280 pounds, and was touted as Oregon’s best pass rushers in 2024. His sheer size and power only added to his draft stock, but Burch’s lack of production in his first four collegiate seasons had doubters hesitate if his 8.5-sack senior season was a fluke. However, Saturday showcased it wasn’t.

There were two instances where Burch was able to get pass his man through various of techniques, bull rush, high-low, spin and others to sack the quarterback. Penalties on Arizona’s secondary during those plays negated Burch’s sack but the fact remains that he was getting to the quarterback with ease.

Despite playing against reserves towards the end of the game, Burch was showcasing all the right intangibles to be a dominate pass rusher in this league.

This article first appeared on Burn City Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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