As of right now, there is still a cloud of doubt hovering over Brian Burns’ future with the Carolina Panthers. The two-time Pro Bowl linebacker is out of contract and is set to become an unrestricted free agent in a couple of weeks once the window officially opens.
That is unless the Panthers are able to work out a deal to extend Burns’ stay in Carolina. Either that or they use the franchise tag on him to force him to stay for at least another season.
Carolina Panthers GM Speaks Out on Brian Burns’ Future
The Panthers franchise tagging Burns has become a very viable option for the team. According to president of football operations and general manager Dan Morgan, the front office is exploring any and all possibilities concerning Burns’ future in Carolina — including the franchise tag option:
“We’ll have a little more clarity on the situation after that, but we’re working on it,” Morgan said, via Darin Gantt of the team website. “I think right now, all options are on the table. You know, what those options are, we’ll find out. I’ll have a little more clarity on that after I meet with the agent.”
As Morgan said, he will be meeting with Burns’ agent soon, which is going to be a crucial juncture in terms of whether or not the 25-year-old EDGE ends up staying or going.
Morgan did say, however, that he is coming into the meeting with an openness to use the franchise tag on Burns:
“Yeah, I think we would use it,” Morgan continued.
“We would definitely use it if we had to use it, and you know, we love Brian. Brian’s a Panther. Somebody that I know and that I’m close to, I played with his brother (Stanley McClover). So, I definitely love Brian. But all options are on the table for him.”
Morgan just laid his cards on the table. The ball is now in Burns’ court.
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