Washington Commanders back Jayden Daniels and Terry McLaurin in mock draft

The pool of talent expected to be taken in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft got a little more crowded when the Washington Commanders’ potential target of Missouri receiver Luther Burden III was announced earlier this month.

While Commanders receiver Terry McLaurin and quarterback Jayden Daniels have developed a strong connection this season, there’s no question the team could use a true No. 2 option.

Because even if Noah Brown has been so good since he arrived in Washington, there’s no reason to believe that a first-round talent like Burden won’t at least be heavily considered when general manager Adam Peters comes into play with him next April Select plectrum.

A fact that ESPN recently went so far as to mock Burden to the Commanders in a simulated NFL Draft.

“It’s been a joy to watch the Jayden Daniels-Terry McLaurin duo thrive this season, but this offense needs more playmakers at receiver,” ESPN’s Field Yates said in a mockery. “I like the fit of Burden; He is powerful and explosive and thrives with the ball in his hands as one of the best run-after-catch players in his class. Burden then had a modest 2024 season (676 receiving yards, six touchdowns). “A dominant campaign in 2023, but much of the downward trend can be attributed to a Mizzou offense built around him. It would be fun to bring McLaurin and Burden together in DC.”

In three years with the Tigers, Burden amassed nearly 200 receptions, rushed for over 2,200 yards and hauled in 21 touchdown catches. He also had a few appearances throughout his career and took part in the return game for Missouri, although none of these aspects were ever the focus of his contributions.

During his freshman season in 2022, Burden returned 12 punts for 151 yards and a score.

Finally, Locked On NFL Scouting host and 33rd team NFL Draft Lead Kyle Crabbs highlights Burden’s ability to chase the catch, his explosive speed, his reliable hands and his compact frame as positive traits that Peters might see as desirable traits , who he could add to his squad next spring .

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