Arizona State linebacker Vontaze Burfict began “draft season” rated as a first-round pick, at least according to January mock drafts from guys like ESPN’s Todd McShay. Three months later, there’s legitimate doubt about whether Burfict will be drafted at all.
NFL Network’s Mike Mayock doesn’t think there’s a whole lot left to talk about. He has Burfict rated as an undrafted free agent.
“I put his tape on with absolutely zero preconceived notions,” Mayock explained in a Thursday conference call with media. “I watched three tapes and really didn’t like him as a football player.
“I think he’s a non-draftable kid. For me, he’s a free agent.”
The common misconception with Burfict is that his problems occurred during the pre-draft process, when Burfict bombed at the Combine and again at his Pro Day. As Mayock has explained, however, Burfict’s fall occurred during games. He’s just not a good player.