A new role in a new defense could mean a lot of new opportunities for Carolina Panthers defensive end outside linebacker Brian Burns.
Burns spoke with reporters following Wednesday’s opening practice of 2023 training camp. The two-time Pro Bowl pass rusher, who is getting his feet back under him following offseason ankle surgery, was asked about what the team’s new 3-4 base defense will reveal about him.
“I think it’ll showcase my IQ more than anything,” he replied. “I mean, physically, it’s so much more you could do at my position. But I think it’ll showcase my IQ more than anything, just because of the disguises and really mappin’ out and understandin’ formations.
“Like, I think I can make more plays in that type of role. Now I have a little freedom to move about over the slot, back, up, it doesn’t really matter. I just feel like me being able to disguise the way I want to can probably open up some opportunities for me.”
The hiring of defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero also marked the ushering in of a fresh look on that side of the ball. As opposed to the past handful of seasons under head coach Matt Rhule, Carolina will primarily be using an odd-man front and four backers.
For Burns, that means a switch from having his hand in the ground to standing up off the edge—a position that should also showcase his speed and explosiveness as a quarterback-seeking missile. And now that he’s been cleared for launch, Burns—even amidst of contract talks—is ready to go.
“I kinda feel like what we got goin’ is bigger than . . . I don’t wanna say it’s bigger than my individual goals. Those matter, of course,” he added. “But I feel like what we got building is bigger than that. I feel like I’m a key piece to what we need to get done.”
