A Closer Look at Joe Burrow’s Journey to NFL Stardom

In the summer of 2018, Joe Burrow‘s arrival at Louisiana State University (LSU) as a graduate transfer was met with skepticism by his new teammates. The Ohio State University transfer had come to LSU after losing the starting quarterback battle to Dwayne Haskins at Ohio State. Burrow’s initial days were tense as LSU players were unsure about welcoming an outsider. Former LSU tight end Thaddeus Moss described the locker room atmosphere saying, “The mood was 95% against Joe. He can come off like a ‘d—head’ because he cares so much about what he’s focused on.”

Despite the frosty reception, Burrow addressed his teammates during a players-only meeting. He emphasized his commitment to the team, saying, “I only care about you guys and winning. Nothing else. I don’t care if I win awards or even if I’m the starting quarterback.” His sincerity helped shift team opinion slightly in his favor. However, he still had to prove himself on the field.

Burrow’s decision to transfer came after the Ohio State spring game, where he posted a decent performance. However, aware of his stagnant position on the depth chart behind Haskins, he sought new opportunities. He considered LSU after a recommendation from LSU safeties coach Bill Busch, an old family friend. “If we get Joe Burrow, we can win a national title,” Busch told LSU’s head coach Ed Orgeron.

LSU orchestrated a swift recruitment of Burrow, flying against traditional routes. This process included the now-famous recruitment dinner where Orgeron arranged for 25 pounds of crawfish to be delivered to accommodate Burrow’s request. The dinner solidified Burrow’s decision to transfer to LSU, a move that would dramatically change the course of college football.

Upon arrival in Baton Rouge, Burrow’s dedication was evident as he spent significant time understanding LSU’s football operations. He worked closely with strength and conditioning coach Tommy Moffitt to familiarize himself with the team’s routines. Burrow impressed his coaching staff by winning every run in LSU’s grueling spring conditioning drill, earning respect from his peers and coaches.

Burrow’s competitive nature was further showcased during an intense summer practice where verbal exchanges with the defense laid the groundwork for mutual respect. Former offensive assistant Jorge Munoz noted, “Devin White was never looking for a fight — he was looking for someone to step up and say [f— you], which helped everybody believe in Joe Burrow.”

By the beginning of the 2018 season, Burrow had been named the starting quarterback, leading LSU to a successful 10-3 record, capped off with a victory in the Fiesta Bowl. His performance elevated his draft prospects and set the stage for a historic 2019 season.

The following year, Burrow led LSU to a perfect 15-0 season, breaking numerous records and ultimately winning the Heisman Trophy by a historic margin. His performance in the College Football Playoff was exemplary, leading LSU to national championship glory. Burrow’s rise at LSU exemplified a meteoric ascension in college football history, marking him as a pivotal player in LSU’s storied sports history.