NFL Rumors: Brian Burns, Panthers End Contract Talks Ahead of 2024 Free Agency

The Carolina Panthers have informed linebacker Brian Burns that they will not continue contract talks ahead of free agency, per CBS Sports' Josina Anderson.

Burns, who the Panthers drafted 16th overall in 2019, will become an unrestricted free agent on March 13 with his rookie contract expiring.

Anderson noted that using a franchise tag or executing a tag-and-trade are still options, but Carolina won't continue with long-term contract talks.

The 25-year-old out of Florida State recorded 50 tackles, eight sacks and a forced fumble last season. He's notched 151 tackles, 59 tackles for loss and eight forced fumbles across his five-year career. Burns was a Pro Bowler in 2021 and 2022.

Carolina general manager Dan Morgan said at the NFL combine this week that using a franchise tag on Burns is something the Panthers have considered.

"We would definitely use it if we had to use it," Morgan said. "And we love Brian. Brian's a Panther. Somebody that I know, that I'm close to. I played with his brother. So, definitely love Brian. But all options are on the table."

A franchise tag on Burns would cost Carolina $22.8 in 2024 and the Panthers have until Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET to tag him.

Burns was reportedly seeking a contract worth around $30 million last year, per ESPN's David Newton, while the Panthers reportedly offered him $27 million a year for five years.

If Carolina opts not to use its franchise tag—the Panthers have not used a franchise tag since 2021—Burns will likely have plenty of options available in free agency.