The Journey of Kaelin Burnett — From Undrafted to NFL Journeyman

A Southern California Start and the Making of a Linebacker

Born on September 6, 1989, in Los Angeles, California, Kaelin Burnett grew up with the body and ambition to one day play professional football. He attended Mayfair High School in Lakewood, CA, where he not only honed his skills on the football field but also competed in track events like hurdles and high jump — a background that hints at both athleticism and versatility.

After a brief stint at Delta State University, Burnett transferred to University of Nevada, Reno, where he showcased his abilities over multiple seasons. By his senior year, he had logged 51 tackles, 5 sacks, and 11 tackles for loss, cementing his reputation as a defensive force.

That foundation paved the way for one of the toughest leaps in pro sports — entering the professional ranks undrafted.

Breaking Into the NFL — From Undrafted Free Agent to the Big Leagues

In 2012, despite not hearing his name called on draft day, Kaelin earned a contract with Oakland Raiders as an undrafted free agent. What followed was a gritty, determined climb: on September 1, 2012, he joined the practice squad, and by November 24 the same year he was promoted to the active roster.

Over two seasons with the Raiders (2012–2013), Kaelin appeared in 32 games and recorded a forced fumble in 2013 — a notable milestone given the competitiveness of NFL rosters.

After his time in Oakland, he continued to chase the dream with stints on practice squads and short-term contracts: brief periods with Arizona Cardinals and Tennessee Titans were followed by ventures into alternate leagues and even indoor football, illustrating a relentless will to keep playing.

The Financial Side: Net Worth and Earnings

Estimations place Kaelin Burnett’s net worth at approximately US$2 million. According to available contract data, one of his NFL contracts — with the Tennessee Titans — was a one-year deal worth around US$660,000.

Given the relatively short spans with each team and the frequent transitions between leagues (NFL, CFL, AAF, XFL, indoor leagues), that net worth reflects disciplined earning — and perhaps prudent financial management — more than superstar-level contracts. It underscores a reality for many professional athletes whose careers depend on opportunity and perseverance beyond marquee status.

Family Ties and Personal Background

Football runs in the family. Kaelin’s older brother, Kevin Burnett, also played in the NFL, making their shared time with the Raiders a rare instance of siblings suiting up together in regular-season games.

Beyond his brother, Kaelin shares a familial connection to professional basketball: his cousin is Amir Johnson, who played forward in the NBA.

These relationships provide context beyond stats — a support network and lineage rooted in competitive sports, which likely shaped Kaelin’s ambition and resilience.

What Kaelin Burnett’s Birthday Reveals — More Than Just a Date

Mentioning Kaelin Burnett’s birthdate — September 6, 1989 — does more than satisfy trivia. It anchors a life story: from Los Angeles youth to college athlete to undrafted underdog, and onward through a hard-fought professional journey. His birthday marks the beginning of a path defined less by flash and fame than by steady resolve.

For fans, aspiring athletes, or writers charting the tough realities behind professional sports, Kaelin’s story offers a narrative rarely told: one of quiet grit, familial ties, and the unglamorous grind of staying in the game.