4 Carolina Panthers players who’ll benefit most from Ejiro Evero hiring
By Dean Jones
Brian Burns – Carolina Panthers DE
Another player that could benefit greatly from Ejiro Evero’s presence is Brian Burns. The stud defensive end continued his upward trajectory in 2022 with 12.5 sacks and a second-straight Pro Bowl selection, which is sure to make him a wealthy man when it’s time to sort out a new contract with the Carolina Panthers in the very near future.
Burns’ explosiveness and speed are two things Evero values highly in pass-rushers within his scheme. Whether the former first-round pick has his hand in the dirt or becomes a stand-up rusher is moot – the impact will be significant wherever he lines up.
Having a weapon like this will be key for Evero, who is known to bring pressure often and rely heavily on defensive backs holding their own in man coverage. There are very few who get to the spot quicker than Burns, whose production last season was the main reason why Carolina’s sack numbers stayed relatively respectable in the wake of Haason Reddick’s departure.
Evero will already be conjuring up ways to best use Burns, who is a core figure to any future success thanks to sterling on-field performances and growing influence within the locker room.
If Burns takes another leap forward under Evero, then a potential All-Pro-caliber campaign could be in the offing. It would also enhance the coordinator’s credentials ahead of the next head coaching cycle in 2024.