GLENDALE – Saturday’s preseason opener against the Kansas City Chiefs was a stellar debut for the 2025 rookie class. Despite first-round pick Walter Nolen absent, the five other defensive rookies all made impacts on the field. Second-round pick Will Johnson didn’t allow a catch, while seventh-round pick Kitan Crawford recorded a massive interception in the endzone to help secure the win.
However, one of the most underrated performances in the opener was third-round pick Jordan Burch. The box score shows that Burch only recorded one tackle, but his impact goes beyond the stat sheet.
Feb 27, 2025; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Oregon defensive lineman Jordan Burch (DL43) participates in drills during the 2025 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
What Burch showcased in Cardinals win:
Burch stands at 6’4 and weighs 280 pounds, and was touted as Oregon’s best pass rushers in 2024. His sheer size and power only added to his draft stock, but Burch’s lack of production in his first four collegiate seasons had doubters hesitate if his 8.5-sack senior season was a fluke. However, Saturday showcased it wasn’t.
Jun 10, 2025; Tempe, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals linebacker Jordan Burch (52) during minicamp at the teams Arizona Cardinals Training Facility. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
There were two instances where Burch was able to get pass his man through various of techniques, bull rush, high-low, spin and others to sack the quarterback. Penalties on Arizona’s secondary during those plays negated Burch’s sack but the fact remains that he was getting to the quarterback with ease.
Despite playing against reserves towards the end of the game, Burch was showcasing all the right intangibles to be a dominate pass rusher in this league.
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
