Carolina Panthers GM shows he is willing to do whatever it takes to keep Brian Burns
Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Ian Kayanja | Last updated 2/29/24
Brian Burns’ long-term relationship with the Carolina Panthers may be in jeopardy.
But the new-look general manager, Dan Morgan, is willing to do whatever it takes to patch things up.
The Panthers are still looking to extend Burns, but the two sides have been unable to come together on a formal agreement since the start of the 2023 season. Morgan, Tuesday at the NFL’s scouting combine, admitted that contract talks are still in the works and he is more than willing to use the franchise tag if he must to keep Burns on the team.
“We’re still working through those conversations,” Morgan said. “Actually meeting with his agent, Todd France, within the next couple of days. We’ll have a little more clarity on the situation after that. But we’re working on it.”
Burns throughout the season has sought a contract in the range of $30 million. However, the Panthers have been unwilling to meet him at that number, offering a deal in the range of $27 million.
Now the franchise tag deadline is looming large.
If the Panthers and Burns can’t agree on a number, Morgan is more than willing to tag Burns – all but ensuring his return.
“We would definitely use it if we had to use it,” he 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.”
The Burns-Panthers saga is far from over. But by Tuesday, there should be added clarity for the Pro Bowl-caliber EDGE rusher.
