Carolina Panthers: 2020 end of season awards
By Dean Jones
Brian Burns – Carolina Panthers DE
To say that Brian Burns made a giant leap in his second season would be something of an understatement. The Carolina Panthers moved their 2019 first-round pick from a rotational piece to their No. 1 option at the defensive end spot and it is clear that this is a responsibility he took very seriously.
Burns was seen as more of a pass-rushing specialist coming into the campaign. However, he has worked exceptionally hard to become a three-down presence who can make a significant impact during almost every situation.
This meteoric rise should have come with a first Pro Bowl selection for Burns had it not been for the flawed voting system. But it’s clear that the Panthers might just have one of the best in the business on their hands if even bigger strides are made in his third offseason period.
His explosiveness is absolutely frightening. And Burns’ stats might look even better had he finished of plays a little better earlier in the campaign.
Burns gets to the spot almost too quickly for his own good at times. But once he figures this out, then the sky is the limit.
The Florida State product finished the season with nine sacks, 58 tackles, 21 quarterback hits, eight tackles for loss, three forced fumbles, and 38 pressures. Burns has a lofty 76.8 grade from Pro Football Focus to show for his efforts and there is just no telling what Carolina’s record would look like without him.