After a week of mystery, it appears that Brian Burns and the Carolina Panthers won't reach a deal ahead of the Week 1 matchup with the Atlanta Falcons Sunday afternoon. 

Burns, who had participated in the Panthers' practices in a limited capacity all week, wasn't able to utilize his leverage to bring about the extension he's sought from the franchise since early in the summer. 

The Carolina Panthers and pass rusher Brian Burns are not expected to reach a deal before Sunday’s game vs. Atlanta, per sources.

After returning to practice this week amid the contract dispute, the expectation is Burns plays vs. Falcons barring surprise.

— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) September 9, 2023

If there is any good news for the Panthers, it is that Burns made the trip to Atlanta, as reported by Joseph Person's of The Athletic. 

He also practiced the last three days despite no agreement on an extension. 

Panthers edge rusher Brian Burns is making the trip to Atlanta, per sources. Burns practiced the last three days despite no agreement on an extension yet.

— Joe Person (@josephperson) September 9, 2023

So, as it stands in the Burns watch, there is no deal to be made ahead of the game one of the season. The Panthers need Burns, but if no extension comes from all the smoke, it wouldn't be a surprise if the drama continues into Week 2 and Week 3 of the season. 

Brian Burns and the Panthers could be inching toward a contract extension

Brian Burns and the Carolina Panthers may work everything out after all.

Panthers and Brian Burns ‘not at all close’ to contract extension as Week 1 looms

The Carolina Panthers have a self-inflicted Brian Burns problem.

Feature image via Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports.