4 Panthers players who could get early contract extensions in 2022

Brian Burns – Carolina Panthers DE

Now that D.J. Moore got a well-deserved extension from the Carolina Panthers that could look relatively cheap in the coming years, attention now focuses on whether those in power will do the same with Brian Burns.

General manager Scott Fitterer stated that this will now become one of the team’s biggest priorities and triggering the player’s fifth-year option when the time comes has already been guaranteed.

Burns has steadily become an almost indispensable member of Carolina’s defense. His explosiveness is absolutely off the charts and the former first-round pick is coming off his first Pro Bowl selection after nine sacks in 2021.

There will be additional responsibility on Burns next season following the departure of Haason Reddick in free agency. But the Florida State product has grown into a leadership role exceptionally well and providing a little more discipline comes into his performances, a first double-digit sack campaign is well within reach.

This would send Burns’ contract demands through the roof. His representatives have no doubt been keeping a close eye on the bumper deals given to players at the position this offseason, so it could end up being one of the largest contracts ever given out by the Panthers when the time comes.

If Burns emerges as one of the league’s most productive pass-rushers next season, then extending him at the money he deserves will be an easy decision to make.