The Carolina Panthers have made a significant move by using the franchise tag on their star edge rusher, Brian Burns. This decision comes after weeks of speculation and reports suggesting that extension talks between the team and Burns were on hold. However, Panthers General Manager Dan Morgan made it clear that they were prepared to use the franchise tag if necessary.
According to multiple reports, the Panthers finalized the decision to tag Burns just before the Tuesday afternoon deadline. This means that Burns will be designated as a linebacker and will receive a salary of $24 million if he plays out the year under the terms of the tag. It’s a substantial investment in a player who has proven to be a force on the field.
Burns, who is ranked eighth on Pro Football Talk’s list of this year’s top free agents, has been a standout performer for the Panthers since entering the league in 2019. Known for his explosive speed and ability to disrupt opposing offenses, Burns has become a key component of the Panthers’ defense.
While the franchise tag ensures that Burns will remain with the Panthers for at least another season, it also opens up the possibility for further negotiations. The team and Burns will have until mid-July to strike a multi-year deal that would provide long-term security for both parties.
In addition to the Panthers’ move, other teams have also utilized the franchise tag to retain key players. The Kansas City Chiefs have tagged cornerback L’Jarius Sneed, while the Cincinnati Bengals have done the same with wide receiver Tee Higgins. These decisions highlight the importance of these players to their respective teams and their value in the upcoming season.
The use of the franchise tag is a common strategy employed by NFL teams to retain valuable players who are set to become free agents. It allows teams to maintain control over these players for another season while negotiations for a long-term contract continue. While it may not be the ideal outcome for players seeking long-term security, it provides them with an opportunity to showcase their skills and potentially earn a lucrative contract in the future.
As the offseason progresses, it will be interesting to see how the Panthers and Burns navigate the negotiation process. Both parties have expressed a desire to reach a long-term agreement, and with several months remaining, there is ample time to find common ground.
For now, Panthers fans can rest assured that Brian Burns will be donning the black and blue for at least another season. His presence on the field will undoubtedly be a key factor in the team’s success, and his ability to disrupt opposing offenses will continue to make him a player to watch.