DJ Burks is an American college football safety for the Tennessee Volunteers. He previously played for the Appalachian State Mountaineers.
Early life Burks attended Maryville High School where he helped the Rebels to a 53-4 record over four seasons including a 6-A state championship in 2019. He played as both a wide receiver and defensive back. At Maryville, Burks was a three-year starter, recording 184 tackles and tying the program record for career interceptions with 15. On offense, he accrued 53 receptions for 767 yards and fourteen receiving and rushing touchdowns.
On July 2, 2021, Burks committed to play college football for Appalachian State. On December 15, 2021, Burks officially signed with the Mountaineers.
College career
Appalachian State Burks redshirted his true freshman season after appearing in two games. The following year he appeared in every game, but spent most of his time on special teams. In 2024, Burks moved into a role as a starting safety for seven of the eleven games he appeared in for the Mountaineers. Burks finished the 2025 season with the Mountaineers with 73 tackles, good for third on the team. He also contributed five pass break-ups, two interceptions, and two forced fumbles.
On December 15, 2025, Burks announced his intention to enter the transfer portal.
Tennessee On January 17, 2026, Burks committed to transfer to Tennessee.
College stats YearTeamGPTacklesInterceptionsFumblesSoloAstCmbTfLSckIntYdsAvgTDPDFRFFTD2022 Appalachian State200000.0000.0000002023 Appalachian State1402200.0000.0000002024 Appalachian State112929583.00.0000.0000002025 Appalachian State133439731.00.022512.505020Career4063701444.00.022512.505020
References
External links Appalachian State Mountaineers bio Tennessee Volunteers bio