NFL Trade Rumors: Panthers' Brian Burns, Giants Have 'Mutual Interest' in Deal

There is "mutual interest" between Carolina Panthers star pass-rusher Brian Burns and the New York Giants regarding a trade, according to SNY's Connor Hughes.

Burns has earned Pro Bowl nods in two of the past three seasons, recording 29.5 total sacks in the previous three years while missing just two games.

The Panthers placed a non-exclusive franchise tag on the 25-year-old worth roughly $24 million on March 5, although the team could still attempt to trade him.

This came two days after Josina Anderson of CBS Sports reported that the team informed Burns that long-term contract talks would not be continuing.

If a trade is ultimately worked out between the Panthers and the Giants, it'll be interesting to see the return package. Anderson previously revealed that Carolina could receive a third-round pick in return for Burns if the acquiring team is also giving him a long-term contract.

The Panthers have been hesitant in the past to move the 2019 No. 16 overall selection, turning down a reported offer of two first-round picks in 2022. However, his cap situation and uncertain future with the team have likely made Carolina's front office more willing to entertain trade talks moving forward.

If a deal is eventually completed, Burns would provide a boost to a Giants defensive line that has struggled with getting production from players not named Kayvon Thibodeaux and Dexter Lawrence. Despite the former racking up 11.5 sacks in his breakout 2023 campaign, New York accumulated just 34 total sacks. That was tied for the fourth-worst mark among all teams.

Burns would also bring consistency to the Giants defense, as he's recorded at least 7.5 sacks in every season of his career.