Jordan Burch is one of the four draft picks signed by the Cardinals.

The Arizona Cardinals have officially signed linebacker Jordan Burch to a four-year rookie contract, solidifying a key addition to their 2025 NFL Draft class. Burch, selected 78th overall in the third round, is among four draft picks who have inked deals with the team, alongside cornerback Denzel Burke, offensive lineman Hayden Conner, and safety Kitan Crawford .(Revenge of the Birds)

Born on October 10, 2001, in Florence, South Carolina, Jordan Isaiah Askew-Burch began his football journey at Wilson High School before transferring to the Hammond School in Columbia. At Hammond, Burch emerged as a dominant defensive force, earning a five-star recruit rating and national recognition. His exceptional performance led to his selection as a captain in the 2020 Under Armour All-America Game .(Wikipedia, Yardbarker)

Burch committed to the University of South Carolina, where he played for three seasons. As a freshman in 2020, he appeared in eight games, recording 10 tackles. In 2021, he participated in all 13 games, starting once, and tallied 26 tackles, one sack, and a memorable 61-yard interception return for a touchdown. By 2022, Burch had become a full-time starter, amassing 60 tackles and 3.5 sacks over 13 games .(Wikipedia)

Seeking new challenges, Burch transferred to the University of Oregon in 2023. Over two seasons with the Ducks, he accumulated 65 total tackles, 19 tackles for loss, and 11.5 sacks. His standout performance in 2024 earned him Third-Team All-Big Ten honors .(SI, Wikipedia)

At the 2025 NFL Combine, Burch showcased his athletic prowess. Standing 6’4″ and weighing 279 pounds, he ran the 40-yard dash in 4.67 seconds, ranking seventh among edge rushers. His 10-yard split was 1.66 seconds. While he opted out of the bench press and jumping drills, his physical measurements—33-inch arms and 9.5-inch hands—highlighted his NFL-ready frame .(Yardbarker, Sportscasting | Pure Sports)

Initially projected as a late-first or early-second-round pick, Burch’s draft stock saw fluctuations due to limited combine participation and concerns over consistency. Nevertheless, the Arizona Cardinals selected him in the third round, 78th overall, recognizing his immense potential .(Wikipedia)

• Athleticism: Burch’s combination of size and speed is rare. He was clocked at over 20.5 mph on GPS tracking, an impressive feat for a player of his stature .(BVM Sports)
• Versatility: Capable of playing both as an edge rusher and over tackles, Burch offers flexibility in defensive schemes .(BVM Sports)
• Pass-Rushing Ability: His explosive first step and powerful hands allow him to disrupt offensive lines effectively. In 2024, he recorded 8.5 sacks in nine games .(Yardbarker)

Areas for Improvement:

• Run Defense: Burch needs to enhance his consistency in setting the edge and maintaining leverage against the run .
• Technique Refinement: While his raw talent is evident, further development in pass-rush moves and game planning will elevate his performance .

Under head coach Jonathan Gannon, the Cardinals are emphasizing defensive versatility and aggression. Burch’s ability to play multiple positions along the defensive front aligns with this philosophy. His addition bolsters a defensive line aiming to pressure quarterbacks and control the line of scrimmage .(Revenge of the Birds)

Analysts have praised Arizona’s 2025 draft class, noting that Burch, alongside other defensive selections, addresses key team needs. His presence is expected to contribute significantly to the Cardinals’ defensive resurgence .

Jordan Burch’s journey from a high school standout in South Carolina to a promising NFL linebacker exemplifies determination and growth. With his recent signing, the Arizona Cardinals have secured a player with the potential to become a cornerstone of their defense. As Burch transitions to the professional level, his development will be pivotal in shaping the Cardinals’ defensive identity in the coming seasons.