Denzel Burke Announces the Draft vs. Return Date

Denzel Burke, cornerback for the Ohio State Buckeyes, has selected a date.

No, the Buckeyes’ junior is not getting married (yet). Burke said on Wednesday, January 10, that he would reveal his decision between returning to Ohio State for his senior season and declaring for the 2024 NFL Draft.

Burke has already stated that he will participate in the 2023 Goodyear Cotton Bowl against the Missouri Tigers on Friday, December 29. When asked why playing against the Tigers was so important to him, the Phoenix, Arizona native told reporters that he wants to end the season on a good note regardless of where he is next year.

“To finish the season with my brothers,” Burke explained. “It’s an extra game for scouts.” Just end the year strong and carry that momentum into next year’s team.”

Burke is one of numerous draft-eligible players who are contemplating their options for the 2017 season, weighing the benefits and drawbacks of both advancing to the big leagues and returning for one more season. Defensive end Jack Sawyer stated that he will “more than likely” return to the Buckeyes next season, while running back Miyan Williams declared for the draft earlier this month.

Burke stated that he has already made his decision but will make it public on January 10.

One of the elements that affected Burke’s choice (whatever it was) was his lack of success against the Michigan Wolverines during his time at Ohio State. Burke stated before that he wants to hear his name called among the first round picks in the NFL Draft because he wants to leave a legacy for himself when he visits Columbus later in life.

“That’s a big thing,” Burke added. “Except for me, man. I hope to get drafted in the top ten. Not only that, but I’d like to have something to show for it later on. To be able to show my kids and relatives that we won something when I was at Ohio State. That is a significant factor for me. When the moment comes, you’ll know.