Panthers Brian Burns projected to be among the elite in what he does best
The Carolina Panthers have one mission for Brian Burns in the 2023 season — get to the quarterback. In a new 3-4 defensive base scheme, Burns won't have his hands in the dirt. He is expected to still be a force in the pass-rushing game playing in a new outside linebacker role, and ESPN's analytic […]
The Carolina Panthers have one mission for Brian Burns in the 2023 season — get to the quarterback.
In a new 3-4 defensive base scheme, Burns won't have his hands in the dirt. He is expected to still be a force in the pass-rushing game playing in a new outside linebacker role, and ESPN's analytic predictor tool is also guessing that Burns will be a problem for opposing offensive lines all season.
Based on ESPN's analytical model, Burns is expected to finish No. 7 in total sacks for the 2023 season.
He is projected to collect 9.6 sacks.
During the 2022, Burns racked up 12.5 sacks on his way to his second Pro Bowl selection.
What makes Burns special is the gravity he possesses as a player.
"After ranking fourth in pass rush win rate (25%) at the edge in 2020, Burns hasn't been on the same level since, finishing 13th (20%) in 2021 and 17th (17%) last season," ESPN's Seth Walder writes. "That's good but not great."
He added: "He's on a worse team than every player above him; the Panthers' projected win total is just 7.5. That reduces the expected number of situations in which desperate opponents will be forced to pass, which creates sack opportunities."
The Panthers' defense will be defined by the type of production they get from Burns. And if it is anything like the 2022 season, he will blow ESPN's 9.6 sack prediction out of the water.
Brian Burns on playing in 3-4 defense: ‘It’ll showcase my IQ more’
Two-time Pro Bowler Brian Burns is looking at, for the first time in his NFL career, a change of roles.
Feature image via Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports.
