Carolina Panthers: Brian Burns in advantageous position to shine

The Carolina Panthers rookie could see a lot of playing time on Sunday.

It’s almost time for the Carolina Panthers to take on the Los Angeles Rams. In what should be a tough contest, Carolina certainly has their work cut out for them. They need to be ready for what is thrown at them. Everybody needs to be prepared, and that includes the rookies. Defensive end Brian Burns is undoubtedly part of the group that could see playing time on Sunday.

Talk about getting thrown into the proverbial fire. The Los Angeles Rams will be a tough opponent, probably one of the tougher opponents on the entire schedule. Normally, rookies sit back and watch what’s going on. Burns may be thrown into the fray. With Bruce Irvin injured, Burns may have to take on a big role.

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According to a report from Max Henson of Panthers.com, Irvin didn’t practice on Monday or Wednesday. Ron Rivera said that Irvin was still going through his rehab program. It doesn’t sound like he will be ready to go for Sunday. Especially at the beginning of the season, it would be wise for Irvin to not rush back.

In the meantime, we all know what Burns can do. For anyone that watched college football, Burns was an absolute beast. Of course, the collegiate game and the professional game are two completely different things. However, there is no doubt that Burns has the speed and explosiveness to be successful. Now, he will be going up against lineman that are faster and stronger than the ones in the ACC.

In speaking with Henson, Burns sounds ready to go. He undoubtedly has a high motor, now we will get to see it in action.

"“How ready? Very,” Burns said.“I’m going to rely on my training, rely on what my coaches have taught me thus far, and just do what I do,” Burns said. “I’m going to watch film with some of the vets to really hone in on the Rams.”"

The fact that he is going to watch film with the veterans is very encouraging. He will undoubtedly be able to learn a lot from a defense that features players who have “been there and done that.” For a rookie coming up, this defense is probably one of the best to learn from in the National Football League. Each of the veteran players on that side of the football has experiences from all situations and points throughout their careers. It is certainly unique in that way.

I will be excited to watch Burns on Sunday. I’ll be interested to see if he has any of the rookie jitters or if he will just get right to work. One of the things that I really want to focus in on is how well he sheds his blocks. If he can get pressure on the quarterback and at least be able to disrupt the offense, then I would consider that a successful day. Something tells me he will be disrupting many offenses over the course of the next couple of years.