According to the NFL Network's Albert Breer, Arizona State Sun Devils linebacker Vontaze Burfict is already getting a bad reputation in some circles as being much less tough than originally thought, and shouldn't be amongst the top 30 or so talents entering the NFL Draft this year.
... When I did a mock last month, initially had Burfict at end of Round 1. Sent it to 6 or 7 personnel guys. All told me to take Burfict out
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) February 16, 2012
... One of these execs thought I was particularly crazy for having him at 31 or 32, and called Burfict a "fake tough guy." Ouch.
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) February 16, 2012
Those are the exact opposite words you want associated with a linebacker, and with reports of him showing up 'soft and out of shape' at combine training in late January as well, Burfict will have to do some serious damage control when he hits the NFL Combine next week. He is seen by almost everyone as an outside the first round type of guy now, but could possibly work his way back with a solid combine and pro day.
For more on the Sun Devils, head over to House of Sparky. For more on the NFL Draft, make sure to check out Mocking the Draft.