Carolina Panthers outside linebacker Brian Burns managed to make Frank Reich happy for something he didn't even do. 

After the trade deadline passed on Oct. 31, the Panthers didn't make any moves — meaning all the trade rumors involving Burns were just that, rumors. Following the quiet day, the Panthers' head coach was elated that the Pro Bowl-caliber pass rusher was still a member and leader of the team. 

"I am really happy that Brian Burns is still here," Reich said Wednesday. "That guy, again, I can’t say enough about. He’s our leader, he’s a great player, he’s elite in every way."

In the days leading up to the trade deadline, there were conflicting reports regarding Burns' future with the Panthers. 

It was believed the Panthers could trade Burns to recoup some assets the franchise lost in the trade for the No. 1 overall pick. Then, as the trade deadline neared, the reports floated that the Panthers wouldn't deal Burns at all. 

As it turns out, the latter was true. The team's front office claims that there weren't many buyers, hence the lack of moves. 

However, the rather large elephant in the room remains that Burns has no contract extension, and he is still set to hit free agency once his contract expires at the end of the season. 

But, to the Panthers, that is an issue for another day. Having Burns playing for the Panthers right now is all that matters. 

Bryce Young not worried about taking hits, says six sacks don’t tell the ‘whole truth’

As the Carolina Panthers prepare for a matchup with the Indianapolis Colts in Week 9, the team attempts to prevent a repeat of some aspects of last week’s contest.