In a shocking move that sent ripples throughout the NFL, the New York Giants have acquired pass-rusher Brian Burns from the Carolina Panthers. This blockbuster trade, which includes a massive $150 million contract for Burns, has raised eyebrows around the league.
According to league sources, the Giants will be guaranteeing $87.75 million in Burns’ contract, making him the second highest-paid defensive end in NFL history. In exchange for Burns, the Giants are sending a 2024 second-round pick and a 2025 fifth-round pick to the Panthers. Additionally, the teams will swap fifth-round picks in the 2024 draft.
Burns had previously received the nonexclusive franchise tag from the Panthers, but negotiations for a long-term deal broke down before the 2023 season. Burns was seeking a deal that would average around $30 million a year, putting him among the highest-paid edge rushers in the NFL. Despite a drop in sack total this past season, Burns remained adamant about being paid as one of the top edge rushers in the league.
It is important to note that this past season was Burns’ first full season as an outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme after spending most of his NFL career as a defensive end in a 4-3 scheme. His performance, with 46 sacks in the last five seasons, still ranks him 13th in the NFL during that timeframe. Burns attributed his slight drop in sacks to Carolina’s poor record, stating that the team’s lack of leads in the fourth quarter impacted his numbers.
The New York Giants’ acquisition of Brian Burns marks a significant move for the team as they look to bolster their defense. With a lucrative contract and high expectations, Burns will have the opportunity to prove himself as one of the top pass-rushers in the league. Only time will tell if this trade pays off for the Giants in the long run.
Leave a Reply