All 53: DE Brian Burns Profile, Stat Projections + Expected Role

DE Brian Burns
Height: 6'5"
Weight: 250
College: Florida State
NFL Stats: 133 tackles, 55 QB hits, 26 TFLs, 25.5 sacks, eight PBUs, six forced fumbles
Projected 2022 Stats: 54 tackles, 22 QB hits, 15 TFLs, 11.5 sacks
Depth Chart Projection: Starter
Burns has been so close to reaching double-digit sacks, registering nine in each of the past two seasons. With Haason Reddick no longer in Carolina, it will mean more sacks will be out there for the taking. However, it could also mean more attention will be coming Burns' way. He was double-teamed a lot in 2020 and still reached nine sacks, so this shouldn't be anything new for him.
53-Man Roster Status: Lock
The Panthers picked up the 5th-year option for Brian Burns earlier this offseason, but are looking to agree to terms on a multi-year contract extension. His rookie deal doesn't run out until after the 2023 season, so there is plenty of time to get a deal done with one of the most talented young pass rushers in the league. Carolina GM Scott Fitterer knows how important it will be for the Panthers to retain Burns and build the defense around him.
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Schuyler Callihan is the publisher of West Virginia On SI and has been a trusted source covering the Mountaineers since 2016. He is the host of Between The Eers, The Walk Thru Game Day Show, and In the Gun Podcast. The Wheeling, WV native moved to Charlotte, North Carolina in 2020 to cover the Charlotte Hornets and Carolina Panthers.