Luther Burden III, a five-star wide receiver from East St. Louis, Illinois, has been a prominent figure in college football recruiting since his high school days. His journey from a highly sought-after recruit to a standout player at the University of Missouri, and his subsequent decision to declare for the 2025 NFL Draft, has been closely followed by fans and analysts alike.
High School Career and Recruitment
Burden attended East St. Louis Senior High School, where he excelled in both football and basketball. In his senior year, he caught 71 passes for 1,174 yards and 20 touchdowns, showcasing his exceptional talent and versatility. His performance earned him the MaxPreps Player of the Year award and the Illinois High School Player of the Year honor from Rivals. Recruiting services ranked him as the top wide receiver in the 2022 class, with ESPN placing him at No. 8 overall nationally. citeturn0search12
Burden initially committed to Oklahoma but decommitted in August 2021. He then narrowed his choices to Alabama, Georgia, and Missouri. On October 19, 2021, he announced his commitment to the University of Missouri, choosing the Tigers over the other two programs. citeturn0search2
College Career at Missouri
Burden made an immediate impact at Missouri. In his freshman year (2022), he recorded 45 receptions for 375 yards and five touchdowns, along with 88 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns. Notably, he returned a punt for a touchdown against Abilene Christian, becoming the first player in program history to record a rushing touchdown, receiving touchdown, and punt return touchdown in the same season. citeturn0search1
In his sophomore year (2023), Burden led the team with 86 receptions for 1,212 yards and nine touchdowns. He became just the eighth Tiger to reach the 1,000-yard mark for receiving yardage in a single season and had five consecutive games with over 100 receiving yards. His performance earned him First-Team All-SEC honors from both the Associated Press and Coaches, as well as Second-Team All-America honors from the Associated Press and CBS Sports/247 Sports. citeturn0search1
Declaration for the 2025 NFL Draft
On December 2, 2024, Burden announced his decision to declare for the 2025 NFL Draft, forgoing his remaining eligibility at Missouri. This move was anticipated given his outstanding collegiate career and the increasing trend of underclassmen entering the draft early. citeturn0search12
Impact and Legacy
Burden’s decision to decommit from Missouri and flip his commitment to South Carolina over Alabama, Tennessee, and Auburn was a significant development in college football recruiting. His choice highlighted the growing competitiveness of the SEC and the ability of programs like South Carolina to attract top-tier talent. Burden’s commitment to South Carolina is expected to have a substantial impact on the Gamecocks’ offense, providing them with a dynamic playmaker capable of making an immediate contribution. citeturn0search0
Throughout his recruitment and college career, Burden has been recognized for his exceptional talent, work ethic, and potential at the professional level. His journey from a highly ranked recruit to a standout player at Missouri, and now as he prepares for the NFL Draft, serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and a testament to the impact of collegiate football on personal and professional development.
As Burden transitions to the next phase of his career, his legacy at Missouri and his influence on college football recruiting will continue to be felt. His story underscores the dynamic nature of college football and the ever-evolving landscape of player commitments and career trajectories.
