Brian Burns to FSU: Seminoles Land 4-Star DE Prospect

The Florida State Seminoles secured their future off the edge by landing a commitment from 4-star defensive end prospect Brian Burns on Wednesday, according to 247 Sports' Josh Newberg.

The Fort Lauderdale, Florida, native is ranked 51st among all 2016 prospects and eighth in the state, according to 247Sports' composite rankings.

At 6'4 ½" and 209 pounds, Burns isn't the largest defensive end in terms of weight, but what he doesn't have in size he makes up for in athleticism. He has an explosive first step and speed that will constantly see him disrupting plays from the edge. 

Keith Niebuhr of 247Sports captured video of Burns before the U.S. Army All-American Bowl, and it provides a good look at his build:

His pairing of size and athletic ability will make him tough to stop in the ACC.

While participating in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl, Burns impressed Rivals' Mike Farrell, who marveled at the young pass-rusher:

If Burns can manage to bulk up a little, he'll be a force along the defensive line in the future, given his athleticism. That's only going to help Florida State moving forward.

Burns will join a defense that was ranked 19th last season—one that's returning sack leader and fellow defensive end DeMarcus Walker. 

He'll also be joining fellow 4-star defensive end recruit Janarius Robinson, the seventh-ranked weak-side defensive end, per 247Sports. 

Walker, who will be a senior, added 56 total tackles, 14 tackles for loss and nine sacks in 2015. Having that kind of presence available and at the disposal of a developing defensive lineman like Burns could prove invaluable in the long run.