The New York Giants training camp has a promising new face this season in defensive standout Brian Burns. The 25-year-old pass rusher joins the Giants after an impressive run with the Carolina Panthers, a move that signals the Giants' intent to bolster their defense significantly.
Proven Performer on Defense
Over his five seasons with the Panthers, Burns has consistently proven his worth on the field. He has notched a minimum of 7.5 sacks each year, showcasing his knack for reaching the quarterback. Last season alone, he recorded 40 pressures, 8.0 sacks, 18 quarterback hits, and maintained an 11.1% pressure rate. His productivity is further highlighted by his 59 tackles for loss since entering the NFL in 2019, ranking him sixth in the league during that span.
The Giants acquired Burns in a trade that cost them a 2024 second-round pick and a 2025 fifth-round pick. To secure his talents for the long term, they inked him to a significant five-year, $150 million deal. For a team that finished 29th in total defense and 22nd in scoring last season, Burns represents a crucial addition.
Embracing the Role
Burns himself is more than eager to don the Giants' blue and white, expressing that he's entering a prime phase in his career. "I really don't feel like I tapped into my ceiling. I feel like I'm just scratching the surface. I feel like I'm really entering my prime, honestly. I feel like there's so much more I can get better at. There's so much more I can improve on. Those numbers are gonna skyrocket once I do," Burns stated confidently.
Adding to his excitement is the opportunity to focus intensely on his primary strength—chasing down quarterbacks. "It allows me to continue to attack the quarterback," Burns said, referring to his new role with the Giants. "Not going backwards, not going into coverage as much. The main thing is we're going after the quarterback and we're embracing it." This clear direction aligns well with his skills, reducing the frequency with which he has to drop back into coverage.
Complementing the Giants' Pass Rush
Burns' arrival is likely to be a game-changer for the Giants' pass-rushing unit, which already boasts young talents like 23-year-old Kayvon Thibodeaux and 26-year-old Dexter Lawrence. The added firepower could be exactly what the Giants need to improve their defensive stats dramatically.
Last season, the Giants led the NFL in blitz and man coverage rates, finishing with a pressure rate of 31.7%. However, their overall defensive performance left much to be desired. The hire of Shane Bowen as the new defensive coordinator brings hope for a more cohesive and formidable defensive strategy, particularly with Burns in the mix.
There's a palpable shift in the Giants' defensive identity, and Burns embodies this new vision. His addition is more than just a statistical enhancement; it's a statement of intent and ambition from a franchise looking to turn the tide.
As the training camp progresses, all eyes will be on Burns to see how quickly he adapts and begins to make an impact. If his past performance and current attitude are any indications, the Giants' investment in Burns could pay dividends, ushering in a new era of dominance for their defense.