Denzel Burke's Rise to the NFL

Denzel Burke's journey from the stands of State Farm Stadium to the field as a fifth-round pick for the Arizona Cardinals is a story of determination and hometown pride. Born and raised in Arizona, Burke grew up watching the Cardinals, dreaming of one day wearing their jersey.

Early Life and High School Career

Burke attended two of Arizona's premier high schools, Saguaro High School and Brophy College Preparatory, where he honed his skills on the football field. His standout performances earned him a spot at Ohio State, where he started as a freshman in 2021 and went on to make 51 starts, the most in school history for a defensive back.

The Draft and Joining the Cardinals

In the 2025 NFL Draft, Burke was selected by the Cardinals with the No. 174 pick. This marked the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. Burke expressed his excitement about joining his hometown team, stating, "This was kind of something I've always wanted to do."

Adjusting to the NFL

Burke is no stranger to the Arizona heat, having grown up in the state. He is already helping his rookie classmates acclimate to the challenging weather conditions. Additionally, Burke has been training with veteran cornerback Starling Thomas V, who will be a valuable mentor in a competitive cornerbacks room.

Looking Ahead

As Burke prepares for his rookie season, he is focused on making an impact on the field. With his extensive experience and the support of his family and teammates, Burke is ready to take on the challenges of the NFL and create new memories in the stadium he once watched from the stands.