The Carolina Panthers are looking to change their fortunes from last season, finishing with the worst record in the NFL. However, one of the team’s bright spots has been the play of outside linebacker Brian Burns as he has been one of the top players for the team. However, Josina Anderson is reporting that the two sides met at the NFL Combine and are not continuing contract talks at this time.
Last week, Carolina Panthers general manager Dan Morgan was asked about the possibility of the team using the franchise tag on Burns.
“Yeah, I think we would use it. We would definitely use it if we had to use it. We love Brian. Brian’s a Panther. Somebody that I know and that I’m close to. I played with his brother. I definitely love Brian, but all options are on the table for him.”
If the Carolina Panthers were to use the exclusive franchise tag on Burns, he would be locked into a one-year, $24 million fully-guaranteed contract with the team. They also could use that as a part to trade him if they cannot work on a long-term agreement in the future.
Brian Burns has proven to be a great player for the team as he has played five years (80 games) for the team and has 246 total tackles, 46 sacks, eight forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and 13 pass deflections in his career.
What should the Carolina Panthers do with Brian Burns?
If the two sides are unable to come to terms with a new deal, something that has been going on for over a year now, the Panthers should try and trade him before training camp. It seems that the team is looking for a youth movement and Burns could net the team a good return in terms of draft capital.
According to Over The Cap, the Carolina Panthers have a little more than $35 million of cap space and a trade of Burns would help the team have more options. If he costs $24 million next season, that leaves the team with little moves they can do to improve for Bryce Young’s second season.
The best course of action is to ask around and see what teams are willing to part with to add a two-time Pro Bowler to their team for the 2024 season.
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