Luther Burden III has taken college football by storm as one of the most dynamic wide receivers in the nation. The Missouri Tigers’ superstar has drawn comparisons to NFL greats like Tyreek Hill and Deebo Samuel with his game-breaking speed and versatility. But who is Luther Burden beyond the highlight reels? This comprehensive guide dives deep into his background, family life, football journey, and bright NFL future.
Who is Luther Burden III?
Luther Burden III is a 5’11”, 208-pound wide receiver for the Missouri Tigers, ranked as one of the top offensive weapons in college football. The East St. Louis native was a 5-star recruit and has lived up to the hype, becoming Mizzou’s most dangerous playmaker since Jeremy Maclin.
Luther Burden III’s Age and Early Life
Born on April 7, 2004, Burden is currently 20 years old (as of 2024). He grew up in East St. Louis, Illinois, where he dominated at East St. Louis High School, following in the footsteps of NFL legends like Terry Hawthorne and Jeff Thomas.
Physical Attributes
- Height: 5’11” (180 cm)
- Weight: 208 lbs (94 kg)
- 40-Yard Dash: 4.4 seconds (estimated)
His compact frame and elite acceleration make him nearly impossible to cover one-on-one.
Family Background
Parents:
- Father: Luther Burden Jr. (former semi-pro basketball player)
- Mother: Latosha Burden (nurse)
Siblings:
- Younger sister: Laila Burden (aspiring track athlete)
- Younger brother: Landon Burden (upcoming high school football player)
The Burden family has been instrumental in Luther’s development, with his father serving as his first coach.
Personal Life
Relationship Status:
Currently single and focused on football. Was previously linked to:
- Mya Johnson (high school sweetheart)
- Taylor Williams (college classmate)
Burden keeps his personal life private outside of family posts on social media.
Football Career
High School Dominance:
- 4,774 career receiving yards
- 73 total touchdowns
- USA Today Offensive Player of the Year (2021)
College Career at Missouri:
2022 (Freshman Year):
- 45 receptions, 375 yards, 6 TDs
- SEC All-Freshman Team
2023 (Breakout Season):
- 86 catches, 1,212 yards, 9 TDs
- First-Team All-SEC
- Biletnikoff Award Semifinalist
2024 Outlook:
- Preseason All-American
- Projected top-3 WR for 2025 NFL Draft
- Potential Heisman dark horse
NFL Draft Projection
- Expected Draft Year: 2025
- Projected Round: 1st Round (Top 15 pick)
- NFL Comparisons: Deebo Samuel, Tyreek Hill
Strengths:
- Elite YAC ability
- Route-running polish
- Special teams value
- Football IQ
Areas for Improvement:
- Deep ball tracking
- Press coverage releases
Financial Profile
Net Worth (2024 Estimate): $1.2 million
- NIL Valuation: $850,000 annually
- Endorsements: Nike, Sonic, Battle Brothers BBQ
- Social Media Earnings: $150k+/year
Assets:
- Home: Luxury apartment in Columbia, MO
- Cars: Custom Dodge Charger, Mercedes G-Wagon
Brand Partnerships
Burden has capitalized on NIL opportunities with:
- Nike (apparel deal)
- Sonic Drive-In (regional campaigns)
- Battle Brothers BBQ (St. Louis restaurant chain)
- Mizzou Collective (school NIL program)
NFL Draft FAQ
1. When is Luther Burden draft eligible?
2025 (must complete junior season)
2. What’s his 40-yard dash time?
Estimated 4.4 (official time at combine)
3. Which NFL teams are interested?
Early links to Bears, Cardinals, Patriots
4. What’s his best NFL fit?
West Coast offense with creative OC
5. Biggest NFL concern?
Size against physical NFL corners
Conclusion
Luther Burden III represents the new breed of NFL-ready playmakers coming out of college football. With his rare combination of speed, power, and football instincts, the Missouri star is poised to be a franchise-changing selection in the 2025 NFL Draft. As he prepares for what could be his final collegiate season, all eyes will be on whether he can lead Mizzou to SEC contention while solidifying his status as a can’t-miss prospect.