The last time Jordan Burch was able to hit a quarterback was on New Year's Day, when he was still playing for Oregon.
Since then, Burch went through the NFL draft process, joined the Cardinals, and has gone through an NFL training camp.
On Saturday, 220 days since his appearance at the Rose Bowl, Burch was able to get his licks on the Chiefs' quarterbacks in the 20-17 victory.
"In practice, you can't really get too close to the quarterback," Burch said. "Coming out and being able to let it fly, coaches were like 'just work your move, have fun, and run around.' That's kind of what the focus was."
Burch's game is an example of why the stat sheet doesn't always tell the full story. On paper, Burch only had one tackle, yet he lived in the opposing backfield. To go along with multiple quarterback pressures, Burch forced Chiefs QB Bailey Zappe to throw the ball away. He also had two sacks which were negated following penalties.
It's one of the reasons why coach Jonathan Gannon has said disruption is what he seeks from his outside linebackers.
"I did see him win some rushes, which was good to see, and winning the right way too," Gannon said. "The quarterback seemed like he was under duress a little bit, so that was good."
Gannon also complimented the defensive line and outside linebacker units for their play in the preseason opener. While the starters did not play for long, it's a testament to the depth that the Cardinals have managed to bring in throughout the offseason. Players like L.J. Collier, who had started in 15 games last season, played into the fourth quarter. Collier had a sack in the third quarter.
In the outside linebacker room, the addition of Josh Sweat, the re-signing of Baron Browning, and the continued evolution of Zaven Collins at the position, have been the headlines which have swirled around the room.
Those storylines, and the news surrounding rookie teammates Walter Nolen III's injury and Will Johnson's emergence to a starting role, have put Burch's arrival under the radar. During his five-year college career, Burch finished with 170 tackles, 31 tackles for loss, and 16 sacks.
"I just know these guys are older, with more experience, so I'm asking questions and following behind whatever they need," Burch said of the veterans. "You can learn a lot from what they talk about. They will stop a whole meeting and just give me tips on how to pass rush or how to set the edge. That's been helpful for me."
On the night before the game, Burch had another question on his mind. He asked Sweat if he had a sack during his rookie campaign. The seven-year veteran said he did not, in which Burch said he'd "get you one."
Since his sacks did not count, Burch plans to make it up to Sweat -- now that he can hit the QB.
"I don't have one yet," Burch said. "That's the mindset I'm going with. I got to get me a clean one. I'm still keeping the same mindset and get after the quarterback."
