Treylon Burks Focused on Personal Redemption as He Returns from ACL Injury
Treylon Burks is determined to make a strong comeback after a challenging NFL journey so far. The former first-round pick suffered a torn ACL during a special teams drill in October 2024, adding another hurdle to his career. But now, he’s fueled not by critics, but by a desire to prove his own belief in himself.
“I’m not trying to prove anyone wrong,” Burks said during Tennessee’s minicamp. “I’m trying to prove myself right.” According to him, he’s already running routes and training intensely just seven months post-injury, showing significant progress ahead of schedule. Head coach Brian Callahan confirmed that Burks is on track and may be fully cleared for training camp.
Injuries aren’t the only obstacle Burks faces. Since being drafted 18th overall in 2022, his performance hasn’t matched expectations. His rookie season, still his best to date, was disrupted by conditioning issues and asthma. Over three seasons, he’s totaled just 699 receiving yards and one touchdown in 27 games. His role has even shifted toward special teams, where he played nearly 10% of snaps last season.
Following the arrival of Coach Callahan in 2024, Burks was told he’d need to contribute on special teams, a clear signal that his spot on the offensive depth chart was no longer guaranteed. That season saw a drop in his offensive playing time—from over 60% to under 50%. The torn ACL, which he called a “freak accident,” further complicated his role and future with the team.
Now entering a contract year with his fifth-year option declined, Burks is embracing the challenge. He admitted the injury made him question his love for football, but it also helped him rediscover how much the game means to him. With a July 22 training camp report date ahead, Burks will compete for a spot among a revamped receiver group that includes Calvin Ridley, Tyler Lockett, Van Jefferson, and two rookie draft picks. His goal is simple: prove that he belongs—first to himself, and then to the Titans.
