Amari

Burney

Raiders bring in a pass coverage linebacker to bolster the depth. He’ll have a chance to compete, but is likely a special teamer out of the gate.

Burney was considered doubtful for the contest with the Commodores, but it sure seems to confirm that the talented linebacker won’t be playing on Saturday. It’s a big loss in depth, as the Gators are also without Jamario Moon; out for the season with a foot injury.

The Gators are sky-high on Burney’s upside at linebacker, with DC Todd Grantham forwarding him as an under-the-radar player to watch when speaking with ESPN. Andrea Adelson of the Worldwide Leader writes that the 6-foot-2, 222-pounder is “fast and athletic but also physical” before adding that “his versatility makes him a big asset.” Playing as a four-star freshman last season, Burney logged 12 tackles with a sack and a pass defensed. He is tracking toward a starting role in the fall.

Luginbill offers up one of his typically thorough scouting reports for the baby Gator, but one thing in particular stands out from it: According to Rivals, Florida views Burney as a safety, while Luginbill sees his highest upside at wide receiver. “Florida is talented right now at receiver,” he writes, “but does not have a player like Burney in terms of physical attributes and measurable standards.” The 6-foot-1, 201-pounder ranks as ESPN’s No. 40 overall player for the 2018 cycle. His eventual position might be something to keep an eye on once he joins the Gators next year.

Burney chose Florida over Ohio State and Virginia Tech. “Mainly I am good with all the coaches and from an academic standpoint they fit me,” he explained. “If you start as a DB for them, you are all but guaranteed to go to the league.” The 6-foot-1, 201-pounder has the chops to play at corner or even on offense, but Florida recruited him as a safety. Rivals ranks Burney as their No. 165 overall prospect for the 2018 cycle. “My expectation is to contribute right away. I don’t want to redshirt, I want to play right away,” he said.