Treylon Burks, the Tennessee Titans’ wide receiver, has been a polarizing figure in the NFL since being drafted in 2022. Selected as the 18th overall pick in the first round, Burks was expected to fill the void left by the trade of All-Pro receiver A.J. Brown. However, injuries, inconsistent performance, and off-field chatter have defined his early career, leaving fans and analysts questioning his future. 

As of June 2025, Burks stands at a pivotal moment, with trade rumors swirling, a recovery from a major injury underway, and a critical season ahead. This article dives deep into Burks’ journey, covering his career updates, performance stats, injury history, trade speculation, personal life, and the controversies that have shaped public perception, addressing the questions fans are asking online.

Early Promise: From Arkansas to the NFL

Treylon Burks burst onto the national stage at the University of Arkansas, where he played for the Razorbacks from 2019 to 2021. Born on March 23, 2000, in Flint, Michigan, and raised in Warren, Arkansas, Burks showcased a rare combination of size (6’2”, 225 pounds), speed, and athleticism. During his college career, he recorded 146 receptions for 2,399 yards and 18 touchdowns, earning First-Team All-SEC honors in 2020. His ability to make contested catches and gain yards after the catch made him a standout prospect, drawing comparisons to physical receivers like A.J. Brown and Deebo Samuel.

Burks’ versatility was a hallmark of his college game. He lined up at multiple positions, including outside receiver, slot, and even running back, showcasing his ability to be a Swiss Army knife for Arkansas’ offense. NFL scouts praised his physicality and potential to be a dominant force, which propelled him into the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft.

The A.J. Brown Trade and High Expectations

In a blockbuster move during the 2022 NFL Draft, the Tennessee Titans traded star wide receiver A.J. Brown to the Philadelphia Eagles for the 18th overall pick, which they used to select Burks. The trade was controversial from the start, as Brown was a proven Pro Bowl talent, while Burks was an untested rookie with big shoes to fill. 

The Titans’ front office, led by then-general manager Jon Robinson, saw Burks as a cost-effective replacement who could replicate Brown’s production. However, this decision placed immense pressure on Burks to perform immediately, setting the stage for a challenging start to his professional career.

NFL Career: A Rocky Start

Rookie Season (2022): Flashes of Potential Burks’ rookie season showed glimpses of his potential but was marred by injuries and inconsistency. He played in 11 games, starting six, and recorded 33 receptions for 444 yards and one touchdown. His standout performance came against the Green Bay Packers in Week 11, where he caught seven passes for 111 yards, demonstrating his ability to be a playmaker. However, injuries, including a concussion and turf toe, limited his playing time and prevented him from building chemistry with quarterback Ryan Tannehill.

Analysts noted that Burks struggled with the transition to the NFL’s speed and complexity. The Titans’ run-heavy offensive scheme, centered around running back Derrick Henry, also limited opportunities for Burks to shine. Despite these challenges, his raw talent was evident, and optimism remained high for his sophomore season.

Sophomore Slump (2023): Struggles Continue

Burks’ second season was even more disappointing. He played in 11 games, starting nine, but managed only 16 receptions for 221 yards and no touchdowns. Injuries continued to plague him, including a knee injury that sidelined him for multiple games. The Titans’ passing game struggled overall, with inconsistent quarterback play and a lack of complementary receivers to draw defensive attention. Burks’ inability to stay healthy and produce consistently led to growing frustration among fans and questions about his work ethic and fit in the Titans’ system.

2024 Season: A Devastating Setback

The 2024 season was a make-or-break year for Burks, but it was cut short by a devastating injury. In Week 6, he suffered a partially torn ACL, requiring surgery and ending his season after just five games. He finished with four receptions for 34 yards, a far cry from the expectations set for him as a first-round pick. The injury was a significant blow, as Burks was already under scrutiny following the Titans’ decision to decline his fifth-year option in May 2025, signaling that 2025 would be his final chance to prove himself in Tennessee.

Injury History: A Persistent Obstacle

Injuries have been the defining narrative of Burks’ career. From turf toe and a concussion in his rookie year to a knee injury in 2023 and the ACL tear in 2024, Burks has played in only 27 of a possible 51 games through his first three seasons. His injury history has drawn comparisons to other talented but injury-prone receivers, raising concerns about his durability at the NFL level.

As of June 2025, Burks is in the rehab process and reportedly ahead of schedule in his recovery from the ACL injury. Titans head coach Brian Callahan has expressed optimism, stating that Burks is expected to be cleared for training camp and could be ready for Week 1 of the 2025 season. However, he remains sidelined during minicamp, participating in limited practice as he works his way back.

Callahan’s comments suggest a cautious approach: “He’s not all the way back from his ACL surgery, but he’s doing some work on the side of practices.” This indicates that while Burks is making progress, his full return to form is not guaranteed, and his health will be a critical factor in his ability to contribute in 2025.

Performance Stats: A Disappointing Output

Burks’ career stats through three seasons are underwhelming for a first-round pick. In 27 games, he has 53 receptions for 699 yards and one receiving touchdown, with an additional touchdown from a fumble recovery in the end zone. His career average of 13.2 yards per reception shows his ability to make explosive plays, but his low volume of catches and lack of touchdowns highlight his struggles to become a consistent target.

Comparisons to A.J. Brown, who has thrived with the Eagles, has been particularly harsh. Brown has averaged over 1,400 yards per season since the trade, while Burks has yet to eclipse 700 yards in his entire career. This disparity has fueled criticism of the Titans’ decision to trade Brown and draft Burks, with some calling it one of the worst trades in recent NFL history.

Speculation with the Chargers and Steelers

As Burks enters the final year of his rookie contract, trade rumors have intensified. Reports suggest that the Titans are open to moving him, especially given their acquisition of veteran receivers Calvin Ridley and Tyler Lockett, as well as new draft picks like Elic Ayomanor and Chimere Deke. A change of scenery could be the key to unlocking Burks’ potential, and two teams have emerged as potential destinations: the Los Angeles Chargers and the Pittsburgh Steelers.

The Chargers, led by quarterback Justin Herbert, are seen as a potential landing spot due to their need for depth at wide receiver. Analysts suggest that Burks could be a low-risk, medium-reward addition, likely costing only a late-round draft pick. The Chargers’ fast-paced, pass-heavy offense could provide Burks with more opportunities to showcase his skills, especially alongside young receivers like Ladd McConkey and rookie Tre Harris.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have also been linked to Burks, with their need for a complementary receiver to pair with D.K. Metcalf. A move to Pittsburgh could pair Burks with quarterback Aaron Rodgers, offering a chance to revive his career in a new system. However, these rumors remain speculative, and no trade has been finalized as of June 2025.

Proposed Trade for Terry McLaurin

A more ambitious trade proposal involves sending Burks, along with a 2026 second-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick, to the Washington Commanders in exchange for All-Pro receiver Terry McLaurin. This trade would signal the Titans’ commitment to rebuilding around their No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 draft, quarterback Cam Ward. McLaurin’s proven production could elevate the Titans’ passing game, while Burks would get a fresh start with a Commanders team looking to develop young talent alongside rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels.

While this trade is intriguing, it faces hurdles. The Titans’ new regime, led by general manager Mike Borgonzi and head coach Brian Callahan, has no loyalty to Burks, but giving up draft capital and a former first-round pick for McLaurin would be a bold move. Fans have mixed feelings, with some excited about the prospect of landing a proven star, while others believe Burks still has untapped potential.

Personal Life: Faith and Family as Anchors

Despite his professional struggles, Burks has leaned on his faith and family for support. In a June 2025 interview, he credited his recovery from the ACL injury to “the grace of God” and the people who have worked with him daily. Growing up in Warren, Arkansas, Burks was raised in a close-knit family, and he has often spoken about the importance of his roots in keeping him grounded.

Little is known about Burks’ personal life beyond his football career, as he keeps a low profile off the field. He is not married and has not publicly discussed relationships or other personal details. His focus appears to be on his recovery and proving himself in the NFL, with his faith playing a central role in his resilience.

Controversies and Online Criticism

Burks’ struggles have made him a target for online criticism, some of which has crossed into the absurd. In March 2025, a viral post on X compared Burks’ career receiving yards (699) to the number of men adult film star Bonnie Blue claimed to have slept with in a single day, a crude and unfair jab that gained significant traction. The post sparked outrage among some fans who felt it was an unnecessary attack on Burks, while others used it to further mock his underperformance. This incident highlighted the harsh reality of social media scrutiny for struggling athletes.

Titans Fans’ Frustration

Titans fans have been vocal about their disappointment with Burks, particularly in light of the A.J. Brown trade. Posts on X and articles on sports blogs reflect a sentiment that Burks has been a bust, with some fans ready to move on from the former first-round pick. The Titans’ decision to decline his fifth-year option has only fueled this narrative, with many believing his time in Nashville is nearing an end.

Head coach Brian Callahan has pushed back against some of the criticism, urging fans to consider Burks’ injury context. In a June 2025 statement, Callahan noted that Burks is “not all the way back” from his ACL surgery, asking for patience as he works toward a full recovery. Despite this, the pressure is on for Burks to deliver in 2025, as his roster spot is far from guaranteed.

The Road Ahead: Can Burks Turn It Around?

The 2025 season is a make-or-break year for Treylon Burks. With the Titans’ new quarterback Cam Ward and a revamped receiving corps, Burks will need to compete for targets with established veterans like Calvin Ridley and Tyler Lockett. A healthy Burks could capitalize on Ward’s arm talent and the Titans’ shift toward a more pass-friendly offense under Brian Callahan. However, his injury history and limited production make his roster spot precarious, especially with younger receivers like Elic Ayomanor vying for roles.

Analysts are skeptical about Burks’ chances of a breakout. Yahoo Sports noted that it would be a “surprise” if Burks “suddenly blossoms” in 2025, citing his underwhelming stats and the Titans’ lack of loyalty to him under their new regime. Still, Burks’ physical tools and flashes of brilliance suggest he could still turn things around with the right opportunity.

Potential for a Fresh Start

If Burks is traded, teams like the Chargers or Steelers could offer a fresh start. A new system, quarterback, and coaching staff might unlock the potential that made him a first-round pick. At just 25 years old, Burks has time to revive his career, but he must stay healthy and seize his opportunities.

Fan and Analyst Sentiment

Titans fans are divided on Burks. Some still believe in his talent and hope a healthy season will prove his worth, while others view him as a bust and are ready to move on. Posts on X reflect this split, with some fans defending Burks’ potential and others criticizing his lack of production. Analysts lean toward the latter, with many predicting that 2025 will be his last season in Nashville unless he delivers a significant turnaround.

FAQs

What is Treylon Burks’ injury status?

Burks suffered a torn ACL during a special teams drill in October 2024, which led to him being placed on injured reserve for the remainder of the 2024 season. As of June 2025, he is progressing in his rehabilitation and is expected to be cleared for training camp. However, there is uncertainty regarding his availability for the start of the 2025 regular season. 

What is Treylon Burks’ fantasy football outlook for 2025?

Burks is currently on the fantasy football radar but is considered a low-priority option. His recovery from a torn ACL and limited production in previous seasons have led to minimal fantasy value. He is not expected to be a significant contributor unless he demonstrates substantial progress during training camp and preseason. 

Are there any trade rumors involving Treylon Burks?

There have been discussions about the Titans potentially trading Burks, especially as he recovers from his injury. Teams like the Los Angeles Chargers have been mentioned as possible destinations, seeking a fresh start for the injury-plagued receiver.

What was Treylon Burks’ college performance like?

At the University of Arkansas, Burks was a standout wide receiver. In his sophomore season, he recorded 66 receptions for 1,104 yards and 11 touchdowns. His performance earned him All-SEC honors and placed him on the Biletnikoff Award Watch List.

In Summary

Treylon Burks stands at a crossroads in his NFL journey. Once heralded as the next great Titans receiver, he has been hampered by injuries, inconsistent performance, and the shadow of A.J. Brown. As he works his way back from an ACL injury, the 2025 season offers a final chance to prove he belongs in Tennessee or perhaps elsewhere. Trade rumors, fan frustration, and off-field controversies have added to the pressure, but Burks’ faith, family, and raw talent provide hope for a redemption arc.

Whether he stays with the Titans or lands with a new team, Burks’ story is one of resilience in the face of adversity. The NFL is a league of second chances, and at 25, Burks has the potential to rewrite his narrative. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if he can finally deliver on the promise that made him a first-round pick. For now, all eyes are on training camp, where Burks’ journey back to the field and perhaps to stardom begins anew.

To read more, Click Here .