According to reports, the Carolina Panthers want to tag Brian Burns in order to trade the great pass rusher.
Speaking to reporters during his first NFL Combine, Morgan provided limited insight into the Burns situation. He acknowledged the possibility of resorting to the franchise tag but did not divulge much beyond that. Morgan expressed his fondness for Burns, emphasizing their connection through Morgan’s previous acquaintance with Burns’ brother, Stanley McClover. However, he noted that all options are being considered regarding Burns’ future with the Panthers.
Franchising and subsequently trading a player is a strategy employed by other teams in recent years to retain key talent and prevent them from entering free agency. The Green Bay Packers notably used this tactic with Davante Adams before trading him to the Las Vegas Raiders ahead of the 2022 season. Likewise, the reigning Super Bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs, are contemplating a similar approach with one of their star players.
Reports suggest that Carolina is also contemplating using the franchise tag on Burns before the March deadline. The expected cost for the franchise tag on edge rushers this season is around $24 million, while Burns is reportedly seeking $30 million annually on a long-term deal.
Examining Burns’ performance from 2019 to 2023, he amassed impressive statistics, including 95 quarterback hits, 59 tackles for loss, and 49 sacks. However, his sack production dipped to eight in 16 games during the most recent season.
With Carolina’s first-round draft pick in 2024 belonging to the Chicago Bears, who acquired it in a trade, it appears logical for the rebuilding Panthers to explore options to regain draft assets rather than committing to a long-term deal with Burns.
