The New York Giants' training camp is abuzz with anticipation as they welcome a dynamic new addition to their defensive lineup—Brian Burns. The 25-year-old edge rusher joins the Giants following an impressive stint with the Carolina Panthers, where he cemented his reputation as one of the most consistent pass rushers in the NFL.
A Proven Track Record in Carolina
Burns comes to New York with a solid pedigree, having notched a minimum of 7.5 sacks each year over his five seasons with the Panthers. Last season alone, he registered 40 pressures, 8.0 sacks, 18 quarterback hits, and an 11.1% pressure rate. Since entering the league in 2019, Burns has amassed 59 tackles for loss, placing him sixth in the NFL during that span. These impressive stats underscore his ability to disrupt opposing offenses and make plays in the backfield.
“I really don’t feel like I tapped into my ceiling. I feel like I’m just scratching the surface,” Burns reflected on his career thus far. “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.”
A Shrewd Move by the Giants
Acquiring Burns required a significant investment from the Giants, who traded a 2024 second-round pick and a 2025 fifth-round pick to secure his services. However, his addition appears to be a calculated and strategic move for a defense that struggled last season, finishing 29th in total defense and 22nd in scoring. Moreover, the Giants had the highest blitz and man coverage rates in the NFL last season, making Burns’ aggressive, quarterback-hunting style a perfect fit.
New defensive coordinator Shane Bowen, who was recently hired, is expected to leverage Burns’ skills to help elevate the Giants' defense. Burns’ arrival also fortifies a promising pass-rushing unit that already includes young talents like Kayvon Thibodeaux, 23, and Dexter Lawrence, 26.
A Promising Fit for the Giants
Burns is particularly excited about his new role in Bowen’s scheme, which allows him to focus more on attacking the quarterback and less on dropping back into coverage. “It allows me to continue to attack the quarterback,” he said, emphasizing his relief at the shift in responsibilities. “Not going backwards, not going into coverage as much. The main thing is we’re going after the quarterback and we’re embracing it.”
Big Expectations
The Giants have shown their confidence in Burns by signing him to a lucrative five-year, $150 million deal. This contract not only underscores the franchise's commitment to bolstering their defense but also their belief in Burns' potential to become one of the league’s premier edge rushers during his prime years.
Last season, the Giants managed a 31.7% pressure rate, a statistic they’re eager to improve upon with the help of their new star player. Burns' addition could well be the catalyst needed to transform a defense that has been a liability into one of the more formidable units in the league.
With training camp underway, all eyes will be on Burns as he integrates into his new team and aims to elevate their defensive prowess. His track record suggests he is up for the challenge, and his optimism about his untapped potential offers a tantalizing prospect for Giants fans eager to see a revitalized pass rush on the field this season.