While reportedly unlikely at this point, the possibility of the Carolina Panthers trading away outside linebacker Brian Burns remains, well, a possibility. After all, we’ve seen the organization part with stars Christian McCaffrey and DJ Moore over the last year.
Plus, the winless Panthers probably aren’t in the position they envisioned themselves a few months back. So, if moving the two-time Pro Bowl pass rusher can help general manager Scott Fitterer and company recoup some draft capital, perhaps they can be tempted into a blockbuster deal.
Here are four teams that could land Burns should Carolina decide to move on:
Los Angeles Rams
Possible trade compensation: 2024 first-round pick, 2025 second-round pick, 2026 fourth-round pick
Last year, the Panthers reportedly rejected the Rams’ offer of two first-round picks and a second-round pick for Burns—so it may seem odd that they would be willing to take less now. But with Burns’ contract a season older and no sign of an extension, Carolina has less leverage.
In this scenario, they replace the picks they sent to Chicago in the trade for quarterback Bryce Young and Los Angeles adds a star edge rusher to help the team stand out in a competitive NFC West. If any deal were to happen, this ranks among the most mutually beneficial.
Baltimore Ravens
Trade compensation: 2024 first-round pick, 2024 third-round pick
Despite leading the NFL in sacks after Sunday’s early slate, the Ravens have had to deal with some injuries along their defensive line. So, Burns would instantly boost and fortify one of the strongest fronts in the game.
A year after their deadline deal for linebacker Roquan Smith, the Ravens could make another big and timely move. While this trade involves fewer picks than the last, the front-loading of 2024 picks could help Fitterer spark a quicker rebuild—which may seem appealing as fans grow impatient with the current front office.
Houston Texans
Possible trade compensation: 2024 first-round pick (via Cleveland), 2024 third-round pick (via Philadelphia)
Along with having enough available draft capital to make the deal, any team that acquires Burns will also need the money to quickly sign him to a long-term contract. The Texans fit the criteria.
Houston owns Cleveland’s first-round pick in 2024, so they could package that and a later-round pick to get the deal done and pair up Burns with standout rookie Will Anderson Jr.
Kansas City Chiefs
Possible trade compensation: 2024 first-round pick, 2025 second-round pick
The Chiefs lost their season opener to the Detroit Lions with star defensive lineman Chris Jones holding out. That should have been an eye-opener for the defending Super Bowl champions—who boast an impressive, though shallow, pass rush.
Acquiring Burns at the deadline would instantly improve Kansas City’s attack while also solidifying the team’s long-term situation at the position—especially if they opt to let Jones walk after this season.
