With their final selection in the 2026 NFL draft, the Indianapolis Colts selected Oklahoma wide receiver Deion Burks at pick 254 overall.
Let’s break this selection down.
Why did the Colts draft Oklahoma WR Deion Burks?
The thought was that the Colts would address the wide receiver position much earlier than in Round 7. After trading Michael Pittman, the WR3 role is up for grabs. Assuming that Burks could compete for those snaps is a bit ambitious as a seventh-round pick. Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, Ashton Dulin, and Laquon Treadwell are the likely front-runners for those snaps.
What to know about Deion Burks
He played a big role in Oklahoma’s offense last season, totaling 86 targets. He would catch 58 of those passes for 617 yards with four touchdowns. Most of Burks’ snaps came out wide, but he does have slot experience. This past season, Burks was quite good after the catch.
Deion Burks’ athletic profile
Deion Burks’ draft profile
For more on Burks’ game, here is what NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein had to say in his pre-draft report:
“Fifth-year slot receiver who is savvy against zone coverage and crafty after making a catch. Burks does a good job of utilizing his straight-line speed when the ball is in his hands. He struggles to win on vertical routes, though. He creates windows underneath by crisply breaking off short routes. He’s a compact, short-armed target who secures catches through contact. However, his production left something to be desired during his time at Purdue and Oklahoma. Comebacks and curls are often swallowed. Coaching and route work could lead to improvement in those areas. Burks lacks standout measurables, but better quarterback play could unlock a more productive player.”
(This article will be updated.)
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: 4 things to know about Colts 7th round pick, Oklahoma WR Deion Burks
Reporting by Paul Bretl, Colts Wire / Colts Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
