Los Angeles? San Francisco? San Diego? Hmm…you would think one of these cities would be the capital of the great state of sunny California. When in reality it is Sacramento that holds the title. I’m sure you’re thinking what does Sacramento have to do with the Oakland Raiders. I’m getting there. I am a proud citizen of the greater Sacramento area, and when I hear of a college player entering the NFL who originated from my neck of the woods I gleam with pride as if they are one of my own children.Perhaps you have heard of Donte Stallworth (New England), Lance Briggs (Chicago), Seneca Wallace (Cleveland), Syd’Quan Thompson (Denver), or even legendary Tedy Bruschi (New England); these are all NFL players who came straight out of the Sacramento area.
Related: Patriot Games: Donte Stallworth
The most recent athlete to enter the NFL from my area is a wonderful, versatile, defensive player by the name of Miles Burris. Burris went to high school at Granite Bay high which is in the back yard of Sacramento. He is a former Grizzly turned Aztec when he went on to play at San Diego State when he graduated from high school.
Coming out of the draft as a fourth round pick, he was the second pick overall for the Raiders. Burris was drafted as a linebacker, he played both inside and outside in college. As a rookie the Raiders will be using Burris’ strength and intelligence on special teams. Hopefully he will get playing time on the defensive side of the ball to build up his confidence on pass rushing plays.
I am looking forward to seeing what Burris is going to bring to the Raiders as a player. Hopefully his size, strength, and knowledge of the game carries him to be a great asset to the team and show everyone why the Raiders chose him as a second pick.
Follow him on twitter @MilesBurris
