4 Panthers players who showed out at the Chargers in Week 3
By Dean Jones
Brian Burns – Carolina Panthers DE
Although he has been unable to get pressure prior to the win at the Los Angeles Chargers, Brian Burns has actually been one of the best contributors during the season so far.
The defensive end picked up his first sack on Sunday as defensive coordinator Phil Snow moved away from using Burns around the field and allowed him to focus on what he does best.
Burns was a relentless force on the line of scrimmage that the Chargers’ protection had a hard time finding an answer for. The attention he received also took the pressure off others around him, which enabled Marquis Haynes to sack Justin Herbert in the first half.
The 2019 first-round pick has worked hard on improving his game this offseason in readiness for a three-down role. This has really come across through the first three weeks and although it might not have stuffed the stat sheet, it does not detract from just how impressive Burns has been.
His run support is tremendous and Burns is able to set the edge far better than he ever did as a rookie. The player has also improved his pass-rushing repertoire to an extent, which is something that should get even better as the season goes on.
Burns faces another stern test of his credentials against the Arizona Cardinals in Week 4. Not only will he need to solve the riddle of how to limit quarterback Kyler Murray from scrambling out of the pocket. But he will also have to contend with running back Kenyan Drake and talented left tackle D.J. Humphries.