Shannon Sharpe and Stephen A. Smith both agree that NC State center DJ Burns should consider pursuing a career in the NFL if his basketball aspirations do not come to fruition in college.
Burns became a viral sensation as numerous college basketball experts praised his NFL-ready physique. Standing at 6-foot-9 and weighing 275 pounds, the center possesses the build of a seasoned lineman.
Despite being perceived as an April Fool’s prank by some basketball fans, there are many individuals within the football community who are taking it seriously. One notable figure is former NFL player Shannon Sharpe.
During his appearance on ESPN’s “First Take,”Sharpe discussed the big man’s performance against Duke on Sunday and jokingly offered to provide Burns with professional training for a potential football career.
“Sharpe suggested to Stephen A. that if DJ’s career in the NBA does not work out, he could try learning the kick slide technique. Sharpe even offered to connect him with Willy Anderson, who could provide training. Sharpe pointed out that many basketball players have successfully transitioned to the NFL and had successful careers.”
Add Shannon Sharpe and Stephen A. Smith to the chorus of media members who believe that North Carolina State big man DJ Burns can play in the NFL. pic.twitter.com/2rlyHaIcda
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) April 1, 2024
Despite being just projections, the NFL’s interest in Burns is evident as several teams around the league have expressed interest in him, as confirmed by Reese’s Senior Bowl’s executive director Jim Nagy on X today.
Burns has guided the No. 11 Wolfpack to unexpected victories over highly ranked teams, including an 80-67 upset against No. 6 Texas Tech and a 79-73 win against No. 14 Oakland. He played a crucial role in NC State’s impressive 67-58 triumph over No. 2 Marquette in the Sweet 16 and their defining 76-64 defeat of No. 4 Duke in the Elite Eight.
The 23-year-old senior has dominated the paint during the 2024 NCAA tournament. He maintains an average of 18.3 points per game for NC State.
Despite being the breakout star of March Madness, it is unlikely that he will be selected in the first or second rounds of the 2024 NBA Draft.
If he manages to defeat Purdue and Zach Edey, fellow stars in the tournament, in the Final Four and emerge victorious in the championship, he may attract attention as an undrafted free agent or for the 2024 NBA Summer League. In any case, Burns could also consider the NFL as a potentially lucrative backup option.
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