As NFL free agency approaches, anticipation grows, with the legal tampering period beginning on March 11 and the formal start on March 13. With teams preparing for roster upgrades, Pro Football Network offered some intriguing summer predictions. Brian Burns, a Carolina Panthers star, has long been on the Los Angeles Rams’ radar, with reports indicating a strong interest dating back before the 2022 trade deadline. At the time, the Rams reportedly offered two first-round picks and a second-round pick for Burns, but the Panthers declined. Burns has long been on the Los Angeles Rams’ radar, with indications of considerable interest dating back before the 2022 trade deadline. At the time, the Rams reportedly offered two first-round picks and a second-round pick for Burns, but the Carolina Panthers declined.
Despite the unsuccessful attempt, Burns remained under contract for another 1.5 years. As a pending free agent, the scenario has changed. While the Panthers have the option of franchise tagging Burns and maybe negotiating a long-term contract, conversations have been stalled for months. Burns completed a two-day holdout before the start of last season, seeking a contract worth roughly $30 million per year. The Panthers reportedly offered up to five years for $27 million each year. Burns would have been the NFL’s third-highest-paid pass rusher, following Nick Bosa and T.J. Watt.
If the Panthers decide to part ways with Burns, the Rams may once again emerge as candidates for his services. While they may not be willing to provide as large a package as before, their first-round pick (No. 19) may be a valuable asset for Carolina. If the Rams pursue Burns again and include their first-round pick as part of the transaction, the team will go another year without a first-round selection. While some may dispute this method, the Rams have demonstrated a willingness to prioritize quick impact over draft picks, which has been effective in recent years.
Leave a Reply