Ethan Burke is a massive, high-upside "physical traits" prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft (April 23–25). A former multi-sport star who flipped from lacrosse to football, Burke spent four years as a cornerstone of the Texas Longhorns defensive front, helping lead them through their transition into the SEC.
2026 NFL Draft Profile
Burke is the definition of a "project" player—he has elite size and length that NFL scouts covet, but he is still developing the consistency and refined pass-rush moves needed to be a primary starter.
Measurables (2026 Combine/Pro Day):
Height: 6'6" (6060)
Weight: 269 lbs
Arm Length: 33 ½"
Wingspan: 83 ⅛"
40-Yard Dash: 4.95 seconds
Draft Projection: He is a projected Late Day 3 pick (Rounds 6–7) or a high-priority UDFA. He has been closely linked to the Pittsburgh Steelers, who often prioritize high-character, high-length edge defenders.
The "Lung Capacity" Legend: Burke made headlines during the draft cycle for having a 10.7-liter lung capacity, nearly double the average human, which scouts believe contributes to his relentless "high motor" late in games.
2025 Season & PFF Metrics
In his final year in Austin, Burke proved to be a reliable, disciplined defender, even if his sack totals didn't jump off the page.
2025 Stats: 40 total tackles, 7.0 tackles for loss, 3.0 sacks, and 2 blocked kicks.
PFF Grades: He earned an elite 83.6 overall PFF grade, driven largely by his 83.2 run-defense grade (ranked 45th among all qualified edge defenders).
Big Stage Impact: He was named Co-SEC Defensive Player of the Week following a dominant performance against Texas A&M, where he recorded 9 tackles, a pass breakup, and a blocked field goal.
Special Teams Ace: With three career blocked kicks and over 420 special teams snaps, Burke offers immediate value to an NFL roster on kick-block units.
Scouting Report: The "Long-Armed Enforcer"
Strengths
Weaknesses
Massive Size/Length: At 6'6" with 33-inch arms, he has the frame to "stack and shed" blockers and disrupt passing lanes.
Lack of Quickness: He is not a "speed merchant"; his 4.95-range 40-yard dash is considered slow for a pure NFL edge.
Run Defense: Highly disciplined; he is at his best when playing as a "4i" or base end, using his strength to anchor gaps.
Pass-Rush Arsenal: Tends to rely on speed-to-power; needs to develop more sophisticated counter-moves to win at the next level.
Lacrosse Background: His history as a D1 lacrosse recruit translates to great hand-eye coordination and spatial awareness.
Lower-Body Strength: Scouts note he needs to improve his lower-body "anchor" to prevent being moved by elite NFL tackles.
Pro Comparison: Isaiahh Loudermilk / Maxx Crosby (Style)
Burke has stated that his favorite player is Maxx Crosby, and you can see that influence in his high-motor pursuit. Physically, he compares more closely to Isaiahh Loudermilk—a tall, long-limbed lineman who can kick inside or play as a heavy edge in a 3-4 system.
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