4 Carolina Panthers players set for a big leap forward in 2021
By Dean Jones
Brian Burns – Carolina Panthers DE
The Carolina Panthers clearly focused their attention on building their defense around stud defensive end Brian Burns this offseason. His level of production in 2020 was highly impressive considering the lack of pass-rushing help around him, but there could be even more to come from the Florida State product considering the moves made by the organization this offseason.
Carolina brought in Haason Reddick, three-technique Morgan Fox, and Denzel Perryman to provide more pressure within their front seven. DaQuan Jones is the run-stopper they’ve been looking for and Daviyon Nixon’s ability to create havoc in opposing backfields in college could make him the steal of the draft with a smooth transition.
Couple this with a cornerback unit that should give the defensive front more time to do damage with improved coverage, and everything is in place for Burns to reach a level not seen on the Panthers since the days of Julius Peppers in his prime.
These are lofty goals to aim for.
However, Burns is one of the most explosive edge rushers in the entire league and when it comes to developing his craft during the offseason, there isn’t a harder worker around.
Next. 5 most important additions of the Panthers’ 2021 offseason. dark
The sky is the limit for Burns in 2021 and a Pro Bowl campaign could be in the offing after the 2019 first-round pick narrowly missed out on this distinction last season.