Brian Burns – Carolina Panthers DE
One could argue that this has already taken place, but defensive end Brian Burns must take another leap forward in all areas for the Carolina Panthers to stand any chance of progression in 2022.
Burns is undoubtedly one of the league’s most explosive edge rushers. His partnership with Haason Reddick last season was prolific, bringing 20 sacks and earning the Florida State product a debut Pro Bowl appearance along the way.
The Panthers let Reddick walk in free agency in the hope that Yetur Gross-Matos and Marquis Haynes can step up their respective contributions. But the onus will also be on Burns to become an elite player at the position and continue progressing as a leader.
There is a lot on the line for Burns next season. Any further increase in influence could be enough for the Panthers to hand the former first-round pick a lucrative contract extension that keeps the player around long term.
If Burns cannot cope with the extra demands and additional attention coming his way from opposing protection schemes, it’s going to be a severe problem. One that could jeopardize the Panthers’ hopes of being competitive when it’s all said and done.
Burns certainly possesses alpha traits. Now is the time to put them all together.