4 overhyped Carolina Panthers heading into 2020
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers Player No. 2: Brian Burns (DE)
Big things are expected of Brian Burns in 2020. The defensive end showed glimpses of tremendous potential as a rookie. And there is a real possibility that the player can take a significant leap forward next time around with more time on the field.
Although it would be a surprise to see the Panthers’ first-round pick in 2019 fail to make the strides needed. There is just no telling whether he can cope with the rigors of being a three-down lineman.
More from Cat Crave
- Ranking the top-five QB prospects the Panthers could draft in 2023
- 4 remaining Carolina Panthers cap crunches after Damien Wilson release
- Could Duce Staley help Carolina Panthers land Jamaal Williams in 2023?
- How much could the Carolina Panthers afford to offer Lamar Jackson?
- 4 Panthers rumors to emerge from 2023 NFL Scouting Combine
Burns is built for speed. And this came in handy for the Panthers in pass-rushing situations last season. Much more will be needed from a prominent starting role. So elements of his game such as run support will need to improve dramatically.
Expectations for Burns to massively improve on the 7.5 sacks he achieved during his first year as a professional might be too much for the player to reach. There will be far more focus on him from opposing offensive lines next season. And it remains to be seen just how the former Florida State product is going to cope.
Nothing much is expected of the Panthers in terms of a postseason berth or winning record in 2020. The Panthers need to look at the bigger picture. And this is something that could relate to Burns if he doesn’t meet some lofty targets.