Nate Burleson: CBS, Biography, Statistics, Wife, Daughter and Car Accident
Who is Nate Burleson? | Biography & Wiki
Nate Burleson is a Canadian-born American television host, football commentator, and former NFL wide receiver. Known for his charisma both on and off the field, Burleson transitioned from a successful football career to a prominent role in broadcasting.
He was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the third round of the 2003 NFL Draft and went on to play for the Seattle Seahawks and the Detroit Lions. Off the field, Nate has become a well-respected television personality, currently serving as a co-host of “CBS Mornings” and a football analyst on CBS’s “The NFL Today”.
How Old is Nate Burleson? | Age & Birthday
As of 2025, Nate Burleson is 43 years old. He was born on August 19, 1981, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, and celebrates his birthday every year on August 19th.
Education
Nate’s academic journey began at Rainier View Elementary School in Seattle. He then attended Lindbergh High School in Renton for his freshman year before transferring to O’Dea High School in Seattle.
He later enrolled at the University of Nevada, where he played college football for the Nevada Wolf Pack and earned a degree in human development and family studies.
Nationality and Ethnicity
Although born in Canada, Nate Burleson holds American nationality. He is of white ethnicity and spent much of his upbringing in the United States, specifically in the Seattle area.
Height and Physical Stats
Nate Burleson stands at 6 feet 0 inches (1.83 meters) tall. While considered average height for a professional athlete, his quickness, athleticism, and intelligence set him apart on the field. Other physical details have not been publicly disclosed.
Family Background | Parents and Siblings
Nate was born to Alvin Burleson and Valerie Lynn in Calgary, Alberta. His father, Alvin, played in the Canadian Football League (CFL), and Nate grew up in a highly athletic household.
He has several siblings, including:
Kevin Burleson, a former professional basketball player and point guard for the Charlotte Bobcats (NBA).
Lyndale Burleson, who played college basketball.
The Burleson family has a strong tradition in sports and remains closely connected.
Is Nate Burleson Married? | Wife & Children
Yes, Nate is happily married to Atoya Burleson, a media personality and podcast host. Atoya is the CEO and host of “inSIDELINES,” a podcast that offers insights from the wives of NFL players.
The couple met while attending the University of Nevada and got married in March 2003. Together, they have three children: Nathaniel Burleson II, Nehemiah, Mia Pearl, and live a family-centered life, balancing public careers with private support.
Nate Burleson Wife Age
Atoya Burleson, Nate’s wife, is 47 years old as of 2025. She was born May 31, 1978. She is an accomplished woman in her own right—a media personality and the CEO/host of the “inSIDELINES” podcast, which features conversations with wives and partners of NFL players. Her insights into balancing career, motherhood, and life in the public eye have earned her a dedicated following.
Atoya Burleson Nate Burleson’s Wife
Atoya Burleson is an accomplished American entrepreneur, podcast host, and former collegiate athlete, widely recognized as the wife of former NFL player and current television personality Nate Burleson. Beyond her association with her husband, Atoya has carved out her own identity through various professional endeavors and personal achievements.
Atoya Burleson Early Life and Education
Born on May 31, 1978, in Seattle, Washington, Atoya pursued higher education at the University of Nevada, Reno. During her time there, she excelled as a track and field athlete, specializing in hurdles. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and educational psychology, followed by a master’s degree in education from the same institution.
Atoya Burleson Athletic Achievements
Atoya’s athletic prowess was evident during her collegiate years. She won gold in the 100-meter hurdles at the 2000 Big West Outdoor Championship, contributing to Nevada’s first women’s track and field conference championship. She held multiple school records, including the 400-meter hurdles and was part of record-setting 4×100 and 4×400 relay teams.
Nate Burleson First Wife
There is no public record of Nate Burleson having a first wife prior to his current marriage. He has been married only once, to Atoya Burleson, whom he met in college at the University of Nevada. The couple has been together for over 20 years and has built a solid, family-oriented life together.
Atoya Burleson Professional Career
Transitioning from athletics, Atoya ventured into entrepreneurship and media. In 2019, she co-founded the “insideLINES Podcast,” focusing on empowering women through candid conversations on topics like marriage, motherhood, mental health, and entrepreneurship. In 2024, she expanded her brand by launching the “Ladies Playbook” website and app, providing resources for families of professional athletes.
Atoya Burleson Personal Life
Atoya met Nate Burleson in 1999 at the University of Nevada. They married on March 26, 2003, and have three children: sons Nathaniel II and Nehemiah, and daughter Mia Pearl. The family resides in New Jersey, balancing their professional commitments with family life.
Who Did Nate Burleson Play For?
Throughout his NFL career, Nate Burleson played for three teams:
Minnesota Vikings (2003–2005)
Seattle Seahawks (2006–2009)
Detroit Lions (2010–2013)
While his numbers were impressive, his leadership and locker room presence were equally valued. After retiring from football, he smoothly transitioned into sports broadcasting and later into mainstream television with CBS and Nickelodeon, proving his versatility on and off the field.
Nate Burleson Son
Nate and Atoya Burleson have two sons, one of whom—Nathaniel Burleson Jr.—has gained attention for following in his father’s athletic footsteps. The younger Burleson is a promising football player, with early interest from college scouts.
Nate Burleson Daughter
The couple also has a daughter, Mia Pearl, whose privacy is mostly respected. Though not much is publicly shared about her, Burleson has spoken on-air and in interviews about his role as a father and the importance of raising strong.
Nate Burleson Car Accident
In September 2013, Burleson was involved in a bizarre yet serious car accident. While driving home from a late-night pizza run in Michigan, he reached over to stop a pizza box from sliding off the passenger seat. In doing so, he lost control of his car, which crashed into a median. He suffered a broken arm and required surgery with multiple screws and plates inserted.
The accident made headlines, not just for the odd cause, but also because it effectively sidelined him for most of the season with the Detroit Lions. Remarkably, he maintained a sense of humor about the incident and later joked about it on air
Nate Burleson Football Career
Nate Burleson’s football career began in college at the University of Nevada, where he was a standout wide receiver. His skill set made him a desirable prospect in the 2003 NFL Draft, and he was selected in the third round (71st overall) by the Minnesota Vikings.
He quickly made his mark with the Vikings, especially during the 2004 season, when he tallied over 1,000 receiving yards and nine touchdowns, stepping up in place of an injured Randy Moss.
Burleson later signed with his hometown team, the Seattle Seahawks, in 2006, followed by a final NFL stint with the Detroit Lions starting in 2010. Known for his route-running, reliable hands, and football IQ, Burleson had a reputation as a hardworking and team-first player.
Nate Burleson Stats
Over his 11-season NFL career, Burleson played in 135 games, recording:
457 receptions
5,630 receiving yards
39 receiving touchdowns
He also contributed significantly on special teams, including several punt returns for touchdowns—a rare feat for a wide receiver. His most productive season came in 2004, with 1,006 receiving yards and 9 touchdowns.
Broadcasting Career | CBS News and Beyond
Currently, Nate Burleson is a co-host on CBS Mornings and a regular contributor to CBS’s NFL coverage on “The NFL Today”. He also collaborates with Nickelodeon for family-friendly football programming.
Career Highlights:
In 2021, he expanded his role at CBS and co-hosted the Nickelodeon NFL Wild Card Game, offering a kid-friendly take on football broadcasting.
That same year, he became the co-anchor of “CBS Mornings,” joining Gayle King and Tony Dokoupil.
Previously, he was a beloved co-host on “Good Morning Football” on NFL Network, earning praise for his energetic and insightful commentary.
Nate has also worked as a New York correspondent for the entertainment news show “Extra.”
In the entertainment space, he’s appeared in various media and even dabbled in music, releasing rap songs under the alias “New Balance.”
He hosted the first reunion of “The Challenge: All Stars” on Paramount+, demonstrating his versatility as a media personality.
Nate Burleson Salary
As a CBS Mornings co-host and football analyst for The NFL Today, Nate Burleson earns an estimated annual salary of $100,000 as of 2025. His growing media portfolio across CBS and Nickelodeon may continue to elevate his earnings.
Nate Burleson and Atoya Net Worth
Atoya’s net worth is estimated to be around $200,000, primarily derived from her podcasting and entrepreneurial ventures. Combined with Nate Burleson’s estimated net worth of $18 million, the couple has established a solid financial foundation.
