Brian Burns Gives Update on Contract Talks

Carolina's elite pass rusher is about to get paid.

The Panthers have done a lot of work in recent months to piece together the future of the organization. But there's still one big item left on the to-do list: extend Brian Burns.

The two sides have already engaged in conversations according to Burns but there's no timeframe on when a deal will get finalized. 

"We've had a conversation. That's about as most as I can say about it," Burns said Tuesday. "I don't have a preference really [of when it needs to be done]. I'm just blessed to really be even in that talk and the opportunity to have that. Right now, I'm just enjoying the process and everything that comes with it. I know I want to be a Panther that's all I can tell you. I can't preach this any more, like, I'm truly blessed to be in this position. It's a dream come true just to have these kind of talks."

Through the first four years of his career, Burns has registered 196 tackles, 77 QB hits, 43 tackles for loss, 38 sacks, 11 pass breakups, seven forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery. He's done all that while playing for three different coordinators and numerous position coaches. But starting in 2023, we'll see a slightly different version on the field as he makes the transition from a 4-3 defensive end to a 3-4 outside linebacker.

"To me, it's really not that much of a change because I'm kind of used to dropping. In Snow's system I dropped a lot, my rookie year I dropped a lot. So it's not really too much different for me. Just being an outside linebacker you see a lot more and I feel like I'm able to use my IQ more than with my hand in the dirt because I can see formations, I can see backfield sets and what I'm getting. I feel like it's an advantage in a sense."

Burns, who typically doesn't share his personal goals told reporters that he does want to reach 10 sacks by Week 10, maybe Week 11 at the latest. In this scheme, it's certainly possible.

"I know he hasn't even taken a snap out here but every time I see him walk out in the field I say, 'Man, I'm glad he's on our team," head coach Frank Reich said. "He's big and long and strong. I gotta see him play more to see who he reminds me of but he's got a presence about him physically and mentally."

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