4 Carolina Panthers players leading a culture shift in 2021
By Dean Jones
Brian Burns – Carolina Panthers DE
The Carolina Panthers should count its lucky stars they possess an edge rusher with the potential of Brian Burns. His level of production in 2020 was nothing short of outstanding and went way beyond the numbers, which came as a result of some tireless work to improve specific areas of his game last summer.
Burns is entering a crucial third season with the Panthers, which is where we normally see some real strides from defensive ends across the league.
The former Florida State star is certainly capable of going on to bigger and better things when competitive action gets underway. But how Burns leads a young and progressive defense will only enhance his influence one way or another.
These leadership responsibilities are something Burns is taking seriously.
He’s been a constant presence at voluntary OTAs despite not participating much to assist his recovery from a minor clean-up procedure. This didn’t go unnoticed by players looking to follow his lead.
Carolina made use of what financial resources were available by strengthening its defense during free agency. The arrivals of Haason Reddick, Morgan Fox, DaQuan Jones, and Denzel Perryman should benefit Burns more than most, so expectations could not be higher for a Pro Bowl-caliber campaign next season.