5 Panthers who could be playing their last game for Carolina in Week 18
By Dean Jones
Juston Burris – Carolina Panthers S
It’s been another frustrating campaign overall for Juston Burris. One that started well but was hampered by another injury midway through the campaign that derailed his progress.
Burris has been solid on the backend alongside Jeremy Chinn, turning out in 74 percent of the team’s defensive snaps and giving up six receptions from 10 balls thrown his way. There are some deficiencies in coverage and coming down to assist at the second level, but the former Cleveland Brown can be pleased with his contribution on the whole.
Whether Burris has done enough to earn an extended stay with the Carolina Panthers is unclear at this juncture. His two-year deal signed in 2020 runs out this spring and unless it’s a team-friendly deal, the safety might be forced to take his chances elsewhere.
Burris does have a close association with the area having played his college football at North Carolina State and attending Needham B. Broughton High School. Whether this would come with any concessions to remain close to home is another matter.
Finding a long-term partner for Chinn is essential for the Panthers this offseason. Although Burris might not end up being that, there is little doubt he represents a significant upgrade on anything Carolina’s churned out from the backup role this season.
However, the chances of Burris walking away cannot be ruled out, either.