Nate Burleson, the charismatic former NFL wide receiver and current CBS Mornings co-host, is no stranger to the spotlight. Known for his stellar football career, insightful broadcasting, and vibrant family life, Burleson has another ace up his sleeve: a part-time rap career under the slick alias “New Balance.” While his athletic prowess and media presence have made him a household name, his lesser-known musical endeavors reveal a multifaceted talent who thrives on creativity. With the recent announcement that he and his wife Atoya are expecting their fourth child in 2026, Burleson’s dynamic persona—blending sports, TV, and hip-hop—continues to captivate fans. This 800-word article dives into the story of Burleson’s rap journey, his “New Balance” moniker, and how it complements his illustrious career.

Born Nathaniel Eugene Burleson on August 19, 1981, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, to a family steeped in sports, Burleson grew up in Seattle, Washington. His father, Al Burleson, played in the Canadian Football League, while his brothers excelled in basketball and football. Nate carved his own path as a star wide receiver at the University of Nevada, Reno, setting NCAA records before being drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 2003. Over 11 NFL seasons with the Vikings, Seattle Seahawks, and Detroit Lions, he amassed 5,630 receiving yards and 39 touchdowns, earning a reputation as a dynamic player and special teams standout. Since retiring in 2014, Burleson has shone as a broadcaster on CBS Mornings, NFL Network’s Good Morning Football, and The NFL Today, winning four Emmy Awards for his work.

Yet, beneath the tailored suits and TV charisma lies a passion for music that Burleson has quietly nurtured. Performing under the alias “New Balance,” a nod to both his love for fresh sneakers and his balanced approach to life, he has dabbled in rap since his college days. His musical journey gained traction in 2008 when he collaborated with Seattle-based rapper Wizdom on the album The Book of Wizdom. Burleson appeared on three tracks—“The Book of Wizdom,” “Valley of Rain,” and “Put in Work,” the latter featuring Wu-Tang Clan’s Inspectah Deck. His verses, delivered with confidence and a smooth flow, showcased a natural talent for lyricism. Lines like “I’m puttin’ in work, grindin’ till my bones hurt” reflected his relentless work ethic, a trait evident in both football and broadcasting.

Burleson’s rap career isn’t just a hobby; it’s a creative outlet rooted in his love for storytelling. Growing up, he was influenced by hip-hop icons like Tupac Shakur and Nas, whose vivid narratives resonated with him. In a 2020 interview on the Scoop B Radio Podcast, Burleson recounted a memorable moment from his NFL days when he freestyled for rapper Juvenile at a concert after-party. “I was trying to get signed, bro!” he laughed, recalling how his friend Andrew Hopkins teased him for rapping in Juvenile’s ear while the rapper, distracted and “lit,” barely noticed. Though the impromptu audition didn’t land a record deal, it highlighted Burleson’s boldness and passion for music.

His “New Balance” persona has popped up sporadically in his media career. In 2017, he delivered a viral “Rap Recap” on Good Morning Football, summarizing the NFL season with clever bars over a hip-hop beat. The performance, viewed millions of times online, earned praise for its wit and flow. Two years later, in 2019, Burleson freestyled alongside former NFL player A.J. Francis on the show, trading bars about football and wrestling. Fans on X went wild, with one user posting: “Nate Burleson spitting bars as New Balance? This man does it all!” Another wrote: “From punt returns to punchlines, Nate’s a legend.” These moments, while playful, underscore his ability to merge his athletic and artistic identities.

Burleson’s rap ventures reflect his broader approach to life: fearless, versatile, and authentic. In a 2023 Esquire profile, he spoke about pursuing the arts with the same tenacity as football, inspired by Paul Robeson, a 1920s NFL player who became an actor and singer. “I thought I’d be reciting poetry in London cafés,” Burleson admitted, revealing his creative ambitions. His wife, Atoya, a former track star and host of the inSIDELINES podcast, has been a key supporter, encouraging his musical side. The couple, married since 2003, recently announced their fourth child due in 2026, adding to their family of three—Nathaniel II, Nehemiah, and Mia Pearl.

While “New Balance” hasn’t released new music since 2008, Burleson occasionally flexes his skills on air, especially when interviewing rappers like Fat Joe or performing for charity events. Industry insiders speculate he could revive his rap career post-NFL, with one producer noting: “Nate’s got the charisma and lyrical chops to make waves if he wanted.” For now, he balances music with his demanding TV schedule and family life, proving that “New Balance” is more than a stage name—it’s a lifestyle.

As Burleson prepares for fatherhood again, his rap alter ego adds another layer to his inspiring story. From the gridiron to the studio to the CBS stage, he continues to break barriers, showing that talent knows no bounds. Whether he’s catching passes, delivering news, or dropping bars, Nate Burleson remains a true renaissance man.