
Texas State’s disruptive, high-motor linebacker with proven backfield pop
TJ Burkhalter is a rugged Texas State linebacker whose best tape is built on production and disruption: in the 2023 season, he logged 71 tackles, 21 tackles for loss, 12 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, and 2 fumble recoveries after a 2022 breakout with 33 tackles, 15 TFL, and 11 sacks[1]. That kind of backfield impact is the differentiator—he flashes as a downhill playmaker who can wreck runs and chase quarterbacks, while his special-teams and redshirt-freshman status suggest a developing, still-maturing profile[6][11]. If you want intensity, edge, and splash-play upside, he’s worth a long look[1][6].





