Panthers: Could Brian Burns get Myles Garrett money in the future?

Brian Burns could be in line for a contract similar to Myles Garrett if the defensive end proves to be a difference-maker for the Carolina Panthers.

Big things are expected of Brian Burns during his second season with the Carolina Panthers. The defensive end showed flashes of brilliance in a rotational role as a rookie. And it would be a huge surprise if more was not to come now the player is in a starting role.

The Panthers used their first-round selection on Burns in 2019. He immediately rewarded the organization with 7.5 sacks from just 42 percent of the team’s defensive snaps. There is just no telling what the pass-rusher can achieve with more time on the field. And this makes the former Florida State standout a primary breakout candidate in 2020.

If Burns manages to become a prolific presence getting to the quarterback over the next two years, then it is going to result in a substantial financial reward. There is plenty of football to be played between now and then. But the player is in a strong position heading into his sophomore campaign.

This is something that has been evident this week. According to NFL Network insider Ian Rappaport, defensive lineman Myles Garrett has agreed to a bumper five-year extension worth $125 million with the Cleveland Browns, which also includes $100 million in total guarantees.

Garrett has been a revelation since he was taken No. 1 overall by the Browns. And despite his incident with Mason Rudolph that saw a lengthy suspension in 2019. Few would argue that he is not fully deserving of such a deal.

The contract also represents a benchmark of sort for Burns to aim at. He will know full well what could be in his future with some quality numbers. And this will at the very least be a tremendous source of inspiration for a player with bundles of talent.

Can Brian Burns become earn a lucrative deal with the Carolina Panthers in the future?

Burns actually achieved half a sack more than Garrett during his rookie season. That being said, the Browns’ standout only started nine games during this span.

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Garrett is a more powerful presence on the edge than Burns, who relies on nifty footwork and burst to get him in the backfield. Cleveland struck gold when they picked the edge rusher after another dismal campaign in 2016. And the Panthers can feel confident that their first-rounder last year is someone who can drive their defense through some tough times back to prominence.

It is going to extremely interesting to see how Burns gets on with more responsibility on his shoulders. Carolina’s defensive front looks to be an area of considerable strength. And the presence of No. 7 pick Derrick Brown and Pro Bowler Kawann Short should be enough for the player to get some additional space to work in.

There will be something of a bullseye on Burns’ back next season. He will no longer be just another high-end rookie with promise. And it is vital that the player starts well to give himself a good platform from which to build.

A double-digit sack total is a realistic target for Burns in 2020. There is even a chance he can make the Pro Bowl if the player puts an exceptional run together. This would be another strong bargaining tool to bring to the table when he undoubtedly wants a better deal following the 2021 or 2022 campaign.

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Garrett has set the new benchmark in terms of cash-per-year. And there is even a chance someone else can raise the stakes before Burns is in line for an extension. This would be the best possible scenario for the Panthers, who are counting on the second-year-pro to become a star next season and beyond.

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