Mizzou Wideout Receives Surprising Grade from ESPN Draft Guru

"Burden has evolved from a gadget player into a fully developed wide receiver over the past three seasons," Miller wrote. "He is often the focal point of opposing defenses, which is why his numbers last season (61 catches, six touchdowns) were down from his 2023 breakout campaign (85 catches, nine touchdowns)."

Miller also compared Burden to current New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs. Both are praised as weapons in the slot and are considered dangerous playmakers in open space after making a catch. 

"This is a case of asking what a player can do instead of what he was asked to do in his scheme," Miller wrote. "Burden would be an early star in an offense that leans on pre-snap motion and allows him to operate in space with his speed. His three seasons of production and 4.41 speed at the combine are enough for me to believe he's a top-15 player in this class -- though he might be drafted lower due to concerns NFL teams have about his statistical drop-off."

Miller listed Mizzou offensive tackle Armand Membou, projected by many to be a first round selection, at No. 10 overall. 

"He has elite balance and agility, and he allowed just one sack last season while committing only three penalties in 12 games," Miller said. "Membou's combination of really good tape and high-end athletic tools match up to make him a top-10 prospect."

Former Mizzou wideout Theo Wease Jr. was ranked No. 270, quarterback Brady Cook No. 285, offensive tackle Marcus Bryant No. 340 and edge rusher Johnny Walker Jr. No. 371. 

There will be a total of 257 picks in next week's NFL Draft.