Panthers: 3 achievable goals for DE Brian Burns in 2020
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers Goal No. 1: 10+ sacks for Brian Burns
Considering that Brian Burns managed 7.5 sacks from just 42 percent of the Carolina Panthers’ defensive snaps as a rookie. There is nothing to suggest that he cannot go and secure double-digits in 2020.
Burns is a lightning-fast defensive end that is a nightmare for opposing lineman to block. He is built to rush the passer. And this is something that should see the player take his game to a new level as the Panthers’ primary weapon in 2020.
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There is a chance that Burns can go even better than ten sacks if he adds more rushing moves to his repertoire during the offseason. The player has relied heavily on his supreme burst so far. But NFL teams will now have the film to counteract this threat.
It is therefore essential that Burns can boost the ways he can get into the backfield on a consistent basis. One thing he does have going for him is the strength alongside the edge rusher on the interior, which was just not there in 2019.
The Panthers took Derrick Brown at No. 7 overall. And the former Auburn stud will pair up with veteran defensive tackle Kawann Short next season. This is going to give those on the outside with plenty of one-on-one opportunities as the campaign progresses, which will be music to Burns’ ears.
Getting ten sacks should be the minimum target for Burns. He has exceptional athletic traits to call upon. And getting into the 13-15 range is not out of the realms of possibility.