CATCHING UP WITH MIKE BURTON
A New Jersey native, Mike Burton was an All-State running back, team captain and 2009 state champion with West Morris Central High School. He went on to play college ball at Rutgers and after graduation in 2015 was drafted in the fifth round by the Detroit Lions. Since then, he’s played for the Chicago Bears, New Orleans Saints and Washington Commanders before joining the Kansas City Chiefs as fullback for their 2021 season. Before heading into the AFC Championship game on Sunday, we caught up with our friend Mike to chat all things football, life, and of course, his favorite JO pieces. Here's what he had to say…
What got you into football? When did you know it was something you wanted to seriously pursue?
I started playing football when I was 6 and I fell in love with it after 1 year. In middle school, I realized it was something I wanted to be more serious about.
What is your first memory with football?
I remember my first flag practice at our community park when I was 6. I remember running around playing with my friends and having so much fun.
Who was your favorite team growing up? What was it like to play against them?
My favorite team was the Saint Louis Rams, and I got to play against them in 2015 when they were still in St. Louis. It was a really cool experience that I am grateful for!
If you could pick any football player (retired or still playing) to join the Chiefs, who would you pick?
Walter Payton
If you weren’t playing football professionally, what would you be doing?
I would be coaching high school football.
What does a day off look like for you?
Start with a light lower or upper body workout, then recovery such as massage, cold/hot tub therapy, body work, spending time with family, and some film time studying the next opponent.
What's been the most exciting part about joining the Chiefs?
Joining a winning culture and witnessing hall-of-fame players and coaches every day.
If I were headed to Kansas City tomorrow, what would be a ‘can’t miss restaurant’?
801 Chophouse and Joe’s BBQ
What is something you’re currently working on in your own game?
Speed and change of direction and to become a more versatile fullback and special teams player.
Favorite football movie?
Remember the Titans
Favorite motto that you live by?
How you do anything is how you do everything.
What does the offseason look like for you?
Spending time with family and friends.
You’re the dad of two adorable girls - how has it been balancing fatherhood with playing?
When I’m at work my focus is on football and how I can help my team win. When I’m at home my focus is on my family where I put my phone away, iPad away, and focus on playing with them and supporting my wife.
Favorite johnnie-O piece?
I’m a big fan of the Terry 5 Pocket Pant!
