Brian Burns, an emerging defensive force, has joined the New York Giants, bolstering a pass-rushing unit that was in dire need of reinforcements. At just 25 years old, Burns leaves behind the Carolina Panthers, where he solidified himself as a relentless edge rusher, to embark on what he believes will be the prime years of his career with the Giants.
Over the past five seasons with the Panthers, Burns has consistently proved his mettle. Recording a minimum of 7.5 sacks each year, he has established himself as a reliable threat against opposing quarterbacks. Last season alone, Burns notched up 40 pressures, 8.0 sacks, 18 quarterback hits, and maintained an 11.1% pressure rate, a testament to his ability to disrupt offensive plays.
“I really don't feel like I tapped into my ceiling. I feel like I'm just scratching the surface,” Burns shared confidently. “I feel like I'm really entering my prime, honestly. I feel like there's so much more I can get better at. There's so much more I can improve on. Those numbers are gonna skyrocket once I do.”
The Giants secured Burns through a significant trade, offering a 2024 second-round pick and a 2025 fifth-round pick to bring the talented defender to New York. Furthermore, the Giants have invested heavily in Burns' future, signing him to a lucrative five-year, $150 million deal. This move underscores the team’s commitment to strengthening a defense that struggled significantly last season, finishing 29th in total defense and 22nd in scoring.
New defensive coordinator Shane Bowen will be tasked with maximizing the potential of a squad that led the NFL in both blitz and man coverage rates last season. Burns, who boasts 59 tackles for loss since entering the NFL in 2019—a figure that places him sixth in the league over that span—will play a crucial role in this revamped strategy.
“It allows me to continue to attack the quarterback,” Burns enthused about his new role, highlighting his relief at not having to drop back into coverage as frequently. “Not going backwards, not going into coverage as much. The main thing is we're going after the quarterback and we're embracing it.”
Joining forces with Kayvon Thibodeaux, 23, and Dexter Lawrence, 26, Burns adds a potent edge to an already promising defensive front. Thibodeaux, a rising star in his own right, and Lawrence, known for his interior prowess, will benefit from Burns’ presence, which should divert attention and open up more opportunities for them to make impactful plays.
Last year, the Giants recorded a pressure rate of 31.7%, a metric they undoubtedly aim to improve with the addition of Burns. The new dynamic trio of Burns, Thibodeaux, and Lawrence could spell trouble for opposing offenses, providing the Giants with the disruptive capability they require to turn the tide on defense.
As the Giants prepare for the upcoming season, the anticipation surrounding Burns’ impact is palpable. His arrival not only symbolizes a significant upgrade in talent but also represents a shift in the team’s defensive philosophy. With Burns leading the charge, the Giants are poised to transform their defensive fortunes and re-establish themselves as a formidable unit in the league.