Tennessee Titans wide receiver Treylon Burks entered training camp with the knowledge that his position on the team was precarious, as he was reportedly on the trade block. The 2022 first-round draft pick from Ole Miss needed to impress as he fought to secure his spot. However, an early hamstring injury has complicated his status and cast doubt on his future with the Titans.
Burks’ Struggles and Trade Speculation Before Injury
Before his injury, Treylon Burks was considered a possible trade candidate by analysts like Pro Football Focus writer Bradley Locker. Despite being a celebrated player entering the NFL as the 18th overall pick, Burks has fallen short of expectations on the field. In 2024 alone, he had only eight targets, with 34 receiving yards and a 53.3 PFF receiving grade, altogether totaling just 20 catches in his two-year career.
Locker noted Burks’ continuing decline in value for the Titans, saying,
“Like many other names on this list, Burks was a decorated player coming into the NFL but has not seen his career skyrocket as anticipated. After recurring speculation about his being traded, the time may finally arrive in 2025,”
—Bradley Locker, Pro Football Focus writer.
Adding to the pressure, the Titans have enhanced their receiving lineup this season by acquiring veterans Tyler Lockett and Van Jefferson, alongside rookies Chimere Dike and Elic Ayomanor. With these new additions, Burks’ opportunities have diminished, pushing him further down the depth chart as his contract nears its end in 2025.
Impact of Injury on Burks’ Role with the Titans
The hamstring injury has made a trade less likely. Considering Burks has struggled to meet the team’s needs consistently, the injury only deepens the uncertainty about whether he will remain part of the Titans’ long-term plans. Observers suggest the Titans may no longer view him as a critical asset moving forward.
Given his current situation, the team could opt to place Burks on injured reserve, potentially activating him later if injuries affect other receivers. Alternatively, the Titans might decide to release him, ending his tenure with the organization prematurely.
Future Outlook and Team Strategy
With Burks’ prospects dimming, the situation highlights the Titans’ efforts to reshape their receiving corps around new talent, including first overall pick Cam Ward. The team’s investment in more proven veterans and promising rookies signals a shift away from relying on Burks. As his contract year approaches, Burks must demonstrate significant improvement if he hopes to secure a lasting role, but his current injury and previous performance create an anxious question mark about his career in Tennessee.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Does Treylon Burks have asthma?
A. Last spring, Burks dealt with asthma, causing him to miss part of the offseason program soon after being picked 18th by the Titans. He then shed some weight and improved his fitness, with no additional problems noted during training camp or the season.