Chandler Burkett looks to build on a strong 2016 for Maryland football

Profiles in Terpage is back for 2017. Last week, we focused on the offensive line; this week, we’re flipping sides of the ball and looking at the defensive line.

Chandler Burkett, DL, No. 92

Height: 6’3
Weight: 245 lbs
Year: Redshirt senior
Hometown: Panama City, Florida
High school: Bozeman

How he got to College Park

Burkett originally committed to Florida International, but decommitted a few weeks before National Signing Day and then signed with Maryland. He was a three-star recruit and the No. 76 weak-side defensive end in the country according to the 247Sports Composite.

After redshirting during his first year on campus, Burkett has seen a steady increase in playing time over the last three years. He played in every game last season and started the final eight, finishing the year with 35 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss and two sacks.

Career highlight

Burkett played his best game at Maryland in last year’s Quick Lane Bowl, recording three tackles, a sack and a blocked extra point.

2017 prospectus

After a strong finish to last season, Burkett is the favorite to keep his starting spot at defensive end heading into 2017. He should join Jesse Aniebonam on the outside, sliding into the spot that Roman Braglio occupied last season. He also has the size to play the BUCK position if DJ Durkin wants to keep him on the field and rotate other players in.

Dream season

Burkett continues to improve and helps turn Maryland’s defensive line into a force after it was a liability last season. He shows versatility as a run stopper and pass rusher, propelling himself into the late rounds of the NFL Draft.

Up next

This junior started five games last season.

say_al, Terpluvian, Scaletta, Murderlandboy and ziowa9 are the five winners so far this week.