84 Days To K-State Football: Deante Burton Player Preview

Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

For our next installment of the 100 day countdown to kickoff against North Dakota State University, 84 is the number of days left as well as the jersey number worn by redshirt freshman receiver Deante Burton. Wildcat fans have a lot to be excited about regarding K-State’s receiving corps, which will make a strong argument as the best in the Big 12. Despite losing Chris Harper to the NFL, Tyler Lockett and Tramaine Thompson are ready to peak while Curry Sexton and Kyle Klein (Collin’s younger brother) appear ready to serve as highly talented backups. However, redshirt freshman Deante Burton should also see some playing time in his first year of eligibility.

Burton was not a highly recruited player, but that shouldn’t be a reflection of the talent he brings to the table. A three star recruit, he was ranked the #4 player – and top wide receiver – coming out of Kansas in 2012. Yet he also played for Manhattan High School, right down the road from Bill Snyder Family Stadium. As such, coaches Sean Snyder and Michael Smith made sure Burton was one prospect that didn’t get away.

Deante Burton has the size to provide another element to K-State’s offense as he brings a huge frame to the field. Standing at 6’2” and 205 lbs, Burton could be a brilliant option as as possession receiver on third down. With a 40 time of 4.49 seconds, he won’t necessarily be burning everyone on the field, but he won’t have to either. Burton is athletic enough – he also earned all-state honors as a defensive back – and tacked on a pair of interceptions to go along with 327 receiving yards on 20 receptions his senior year. He was all over the field, also gaining 216 rushing yards and three touchdowns while serving as the punt returner, where he brought back two for scores.

Burton spent 2012 on the sidelines while learning the system, and shouldn’t expect to see a lot of playing time in 2013 either. However, the two-year, two-way starter at Manhattan should see the field this year and will be a solid contributor as an upperclassman at K-State.

To work backward in the countdown, visit 86 days, where we preview Zach Trujillo’s anticipated transition from backup to featured tight end.