As the New York Giants gear up for the upcoming NFL season, a notable addition to their defensive roster has made headlines. Brian Burns, formerly with the Carolina Panthers, has been acquired through a trade that saw the Giants part with a second-round pick in 2024 and a fifth-round pick in 2025. The 25-year-old pass-rushing ace joins the team at a crucial time, bringing with him a proven track record and a sense of untapped potential.
Burns' Impressive Track Record
Brian Burns' resume speaks volumes about his capabilities on the field. Throughout his five seasons with the Panthers, he consistently achieved a minimum of 7.5 sacks each year. Last season alone, Burns recorded 40 pressures, 8.0 sacks, 18 quarterback hits, and a noteworthy 11.1% pressure rate. His knack for disrupting offenses is evident from his 59 tackles for loss since entering the NFL in 2019, a statistic that ranks him sixth in the league over that span.
A Promising Collaborative Unit
Burns joins a Giants defensive line that is already showing promise with young talents like Kayvon Thibodeaux, 23, and the seasoned Dexter Lawrence, 26. The team has also welcomed Shane Bowen as the new defensive coordinator. Bowen's strategic approach will be crucial for a defense that finished 29th in total defense and 22nd in scoring last season. Notably, the Giants had the highest blitz and man coverage rates in the NFL, a testament to their aggressive defensive style.
Burns' Vision for the Future
In an enthusiastic statement, Brian Burns conveyed his excitement about joining the Giants and his ambitions moving forward. "I really don't feel like I tapped into my ceiling. I feel like I'm just scratching the surface. 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," Burns shared.
One significant advantage Burns sees in his role with the Giants is the opportunity to focus on his strength: attacking the quarterback. "It allows me to continue to attack the quarterback," he emphasized, relieved 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."
A Strategic Move for the Giants
The Giants' decision to sign Burns to a five-year, $150 million deal reflects their confidence in his abilities and his fit within their defensive scheme. Last season, the Giants' pressure rate was 31.7%, and with Burns in the fold, they hope to disrupt opposing offenses even more effectively. His addition could be the catalyst the Giants need to elevate their pass-rushing unit to new heights.
As the Giants prepare to start the season, the anticipation around Burns' impact is palpable. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how he integrates with Thibodeaux, Lawrence, and the rest of the defense. With Bowen at the helm as the defensive coordinator, there is an air of optimism that the Giants’ defense could make significant strides.
The curtain is about to rise on what promises to be an exhilarating chapter for the New York Giants, driven by the relentless pursuit of excellence and the undeniable talent of Brian Burns. The season ahead looks primed for a defensive resurgence, and Burns stands poised to play a central role in that transformation.