6 Carolina Panthers players who must be off the trade table in 2022
By Dean Jones
Brian Burns – Carolina Panthers DE
Finding a quarterback is arguably the Carolina Panthers’ biggest need along with the offensive line this offseason. But keeping players capable of generating pressure is also something that should be among their main priorities.
Haason Reddick and Marquis Haynes are up for contract extensions and veteran defensive tackle DaQuan Jones is another who could depart in free agency. This would leave the Panthers dangerously short of options across their defensive front, so keeping one of two should be attainable despite finances not looking too great at the present time.
This makes Brian Burns even more vital to the team’s success. The defensive end is coming off a nine-sack season and a first-ever Pro Bowl appearance, which was another big step in the right direction for the former first-round pick out of Florida State.
Burns still leaves some sacks out on the field due to over-committing. His gap discipline on running downs is also something that needs a little refinement ahead of a pivotal fourth professional season.
There is no doubt Burns will get his fifth-year option picked up. And even though it would be a tempting proposition to trade the explosive player to a team in need of pass-rushing assistance, his departure would leave a gaping hole and should not be contemplated.