Jager Burton: NFL Draft Profile – Inside the Rise of Kentucky’s Versatile Offensive Lineman

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, one name quietly gaining traction among scouts and analysts is Jager Burton, the hard-nosed offensive lineman from the University of Kentucky. Though not a household name like some of the draft’s blue-chip prospects, Burton’s blend of toughness, positional flexibility, and improved technique has made him a intriguing late-round prospect with starting potential. This profile breaks down his background, strengths, areas for growth, and NFL fit — based on verified game film, combine data, and expert evaluations.

Who Is Jager Burton? Background and College Career

Jager Burton is a 6-foot-5, 312-pound offensive lineman who played four seasons (2020–2023) at the University of Kentucky before declaring for the 2024 NFL Draft. A product of Highlands High School in Fort Thomas, Kentucky, Burton was a three-star recruit who chose Kentucky over offers from Cincinnati, Louisville, and Western Kentucky.

He redshirted in 2020 and saw limited action in 2021, primarily on special teams and as a backup interior lineman. Burton earned his first starting role in 2022 at right guard, appearing in 11 games. His breakout came in 2023, when he started all 12 games at right tackle after a spring position shift — a move that showcased his versatility and willingness to adapt for the team’s benefit.

Over his college career, Burton logged 1,442 offensive snaps according to Pro Football Focus (PFF), with 862 coming in pass protection and 580 in run blocking. He allowed just 12 total pressures in 2023, including only two sacks, marking a significant improvement from his earlier seasons.

Strengths: Why NFL Teams Are Taking Notice

Burton’s game is built on fundamentals, toughness, and a high motor — traits that resonate well with NFL offensive line coaches looking for developmental projects with starter upside.

Positional Versatility

One of Burton’s most valuable assets is his ability to play multiple positions along the offensive line. He has started games at right guard, right tackle, and even logged snaps at left tackle in short-yardage situations. This flexibility increases his value as a depth piece and potential swing tackle in the NFL.

Pro Football Focus noted that Burton’s “ability to kick inside or outside without a significant drop in technique” makes him an attractive late-round pick for teams seeking roster flexibility.

Run-Blocking Tenacity

Burton plays with consistent leverage and aggressive hands in the run game. He maintains a wide base, drives with his legs, and finishes blocks — a trait Kentucky’s coaching staff frequently highlighted. In 2023, he graded out as a 72.1 run blocker by PFF, ranking in the top 40% among FBS tackles.

His ability to reach second-level defenders and sustain blocks on outside runs adds value in zone-heavy or power-running schemes.

Improved Pass Protection

Early in his career, Burton struggled with speed rushers and inside moves. Though, through dedicated technique work — particularly improving his kick-slide and hand placement — he reduced his pressure rate from 9.8% in 2022 to just 5.1% in 2023, according to Sports Reference and PFF tracking.

He shows good awareness in picking up stunts and blitzes, and his anchor has improved significantly, allowing him to hold up against bull rushes better than expected for a player of his size.

Areas for Improvement: What Scouts Want to See Refined

While Burton’s upside is real, he is not a finished product. NFL evaluators have identified several areas where refinement will be key to his development.

Footwork and Agility

Burton’s lateral quickness is average at best, which could limit him against elite edge rushers with explosive first steps. His 40-yard dash time at Kentucky’s pro day was 5.28 seconds — respectable for his size but not elite. Improving his foot speed and change-of-direction ability will be critical if he is to succeed as a starting tackle in the NFL.

Technical Consistency

Though his technique has improved, Burton still occasionally lunges or reaches, especially when fatigued or facing complex stunts. Maintaining discipline over 60+ snaps per game will be a focus for any NFL team that drafts him.

Strength and Power Development

At 312 pounds, Burton is on the lighter side for an NFL tackle. Adding 10–15 pounds of functional strength without sacrificing mobility could help him better anchor against power rushers and improve his effectiveness in short-yardage situations.

NFL Draft Projection and Ideal Fit

Based on current evaluations from DraftTek, NFL Draft Scout, and The Athletic, Jager Burton is projected to be selected in the sixth or seventh round of the 2025 NFL Draft, or potentially sign as an undrafted free agent.

His ideal fit would be with a team that values versatility, runs a balanced offensive scheme, and has a strong offensive line development culture. Teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers, Kansas City Chiefs, Indianapolis Colts, and Green Bay Packers have historically succeeded in developing late-round offensive linemen with Burton’s profile.

He could initially serve as a backup interior lineman or swing tackle, with a path to starting roles if he continues to refine his technique and add strength.

Key Takeaways

• Jager Burton is a versatile, tough-minded offensive lineman who started at right tackle for Kentucky in 2023 after playing guard earlier in his career.
• His strengths include run-blocking tenacity, improved pass protection, and the ability to play multiple positions along the offensive line.
• Areas for growth include footwork agility, technical consistency, and adding functional strength.
• Projected as a late-round pick or undrafted free agent, Burton offers developmental upside for NFL teams seeking a flexible, high-effort lineman.
• His fit is best with teams that prioritize offensive line depth and player development.

Outlook: Can Burton Make an NFL Roster?

While Jager Burton may not be a draft-day celebrity, his profile fits the mold of many successful NFL offensive linemen who began as late-round projects — players like Kevin Dotson (Steelers) or Lucas Niang (Chiefs), who earned roles through versatility and work ethic.

If Burton continues to refine his technique, adds functional strength, and leverages his positional flexibility, he has a realistic chance to earn a roster spot and contribute as a backup or swing lineman in his rookie season. His journey from a three-star recruit to a potential NFL draft pick underscores the value of persistence, adaptability, and relentless effort — qualities that never go out of style in football.