2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Onte Burns, LB, Southwest Minnesota State University

• Name: Onte Burns
• Position: LB
• College: Southwest Minnesota State University
• Height: 5’11”
• Weight: 205 lbs
• Twitter: @Onteburns
• Instagram: @onte.burns0

What made you decide you wanted to be a football player?

Ever since I was in kindergarten or first grade I was watching football on the tv and I wanted to play. My family is also a football family.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

My senior year of high school when we won our conference in football it was 30 years since the last time my school won it before my senior year.

What sets you apart from other linebackers?

I am a very talented linebacker, I can cover but I can also play in the box and I feel like I am a hybrid safety who can play zone but also in the box.

What type of energy do you bring onto the football field?

I bring a kind of chilled, relaxed mindset and get the team calm. So we don’t rush and just play football.

If you could hang out with any football player past or present for a day who and why?

Tyrann Mathieu, because I just like his skillset there’s not one thing he can’t do and he’s kind of like me where I try to do everything on the football field.

How do you prepare for games?

We watch alot of film and study the opponent and look at their tendencies and what they like to do and see how our scheme matches up and go out and try to win.

What should we know about Onte Burns the person?

In my free time I like to go outside and be active and cook.

What is your favorite defensive scheme and why?

4 front since I’ve been at Southwest we have run a 4 front 4-2-5 nickel and I just like to be in the 4 front and the way you can do different things and how versatile it is.

How do you handle challenges both in life and on the football field?

I always make sure I take a step back and look at the situation and see if it will break you or not and don’t make mistakes going forward.

What would a team get in a player like you?

They would get a guy who they know they can trust, be a lead guy, hold players accountable so everyone is at the same standard and a great player and leader.

What are you looking forward to in your upcoming season?

Looking forward to have a winning season and be accountable and pay attention to details and not make any mistakes. Make plays and get turnover and play fast.

Who is the most underrated player you’ve played with and why?

Jesse Sherwood, #24 great dude, runs with the ball very hard, makes people miss, didn’t get as many carries as most but was very effective.