Survivor I - Nate Burleson Commentary

NOTE: this draft was completed on 7/24

Recent Stats

YR	RSH	RSHYD	RSHTD	REC	RECYD	RECTD	FPT	RANK
2003	0	0	0	29	455	2	57.5	74
2004	6	49	0	68	1006	9	159.5	16

Positives - Number 1 wide receiver for one of the best quarterbacks in football. Broke out last year serving as Viking’s #1 wide receiver during Randy Moss’ absence. Earned Culpepper’s trust and had a couple big games after Moss’ return. Veteran #2 & 3 WRs, a game breaking rookie WR and a downfield threat at tight end will open the field for Burleson.

Negatives - How will Burleson handle being the number 1 WR without Randy Moss on the other side of the field? Marcus Robinson and Travis Taylor provide more size as red zone targets. The Vikings have talked about becoming a more run-oriented team. The Vikings are also greatly improved on defense which should keep the offense from needing to play catch-up as often and possibly getting into less shootouts.

Draft Strategy - I was hoping to grab Anquan Boldin who I think has a better shot at finishing in the top 10 but he went at 4.10. Still, Burleson finished #16 last year and has a decent shot at finishing top 10 if he continues to improve. Others available here were Laveranues Coles, who has concerns with his toe and his QB’s shoulder, and Isaac Bruce, who tailed off in the second half last year and may lose catches to Kevin Curtis. Compared with those 2 I like Burleson’s upside better.