The Carolina Panthers informed Brian Burns Sunday, two days ahead of the franchise-tag deadline, that they will not continue contract talks with his representatives at this time, CBS Sports’ Josina Anderson said. 

Burns is set to become an unrestricted free agent if the Panthers don't elect to tag him by 4 p.m. Tuesday. 

The two sides have been engaged in contract talks for nearly a year. Burns played out the final year of his five-year rookie contract. However, the 2023 season was far more disappointing than either side could have anticipated. 

Burns has long sought a contract in the realm of $30 million per year. That would place him among the highest-paid pass rushers in the league. 

However, the Panthers haven't met Burns at that $30 million asking price. Carolina has offered Burns $27 million, according to reports from ESPN and The Athletic. 

The total difference in the contract offer is no doubt why contract discussions have stalled. 

It is also why the Panthers stand ready to do something they haven't done since the 2021 season – franchise tag a player. 

Burns, if not tagged, hits the open market. The Panthers would lose him for nothing.

But it would merely be the latest blow for a franchise used to coming up a day late and dollar short.

Pro Football Focus names the ideal first round draft pick for the Carolina Panthers

Would love to have him in Charlotte