Brian Burns decided not to continue American Heritage’s tradition of sending elite prospects to UGA.
The 4-star defensive end chose Florida State over UGA in the first big decision for the Bulldogs on National Signing Day. The South Florida standout hails from the same prep program which has sent Isaiah McKenzie, Sony Michel and Marshall Morgan to UGA in recent years.
The 6-foot-5, 215-pounder is rated as the nation’s No. 5 weak-side defensive end and the No. 51 prospect overall for the Class of 2016. Burns projects to be an impact pass rusher at the college level.
He was projected to play the same position as Leonard Floyd at UGA because of his similar build and skill set, but he’s going to line up on the inside and outside of the defense for the Seminoles. Floyd and graduating senior Jordan Jenkins each sent out tweets over the weekend urging Burns to sign with the program.
UGA was considered by many to be the leader for the U.S. Army All-American over the summer and into the fall. The uncertain job status which led to the dismissal of Mark Richt as head coach after the 2015 season appears to have worked against the Bulldogs in this instance. Unless otherwise indicated, player rankings and ratings are from the 247Sports Composite.
Jeff Sentell covers UGA football and UGA recruiting for AJC.com and The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Follow him on Twitter for the latest on who’s on their way to play Between the Hedges.
