Panthers Reportedly Put Star Defender On The Trade Block

The Panthers took a major step towards potentially trading star pass-rusher Brian Burns, reportedly expressing a willingness to deal the two-time Pro Bowler as the "legal tampering" period of NFL free agency opened on Monday.

Carolina recently placed the franchise tag on Burns, signaling a desire to keep him as the Panthers try to build a competitive team around former No. 1 overall pick Bryce Young.

It's unclear whether Burns will actually be traded, though the first domino towards a potential trade has fallen.

Panthers Rumors: Carolina Reportedly Willing to Trade Brian Burns

Burns is widely recognized as one of the best defensive players in the NFL. He has 20.5 combined sacks over the last two years despite limited help around him, and he'd likely command a healthy trade package if the Panthers do move on.

They've been creating cap space with more players likely on the chopping block over the coming days, though Burns is obviously the kind of player you need some sort of adequate compensation back for instead of letting him just walk.

Carolina finished a disappointing 2-15 after trading their No. 1 overall pick as part of the haul to acquire Young last year and now need to restock their assets after a dismal season.

Burns is their best asset at this point. It'd be logical to move him, though only if the right deal materializes.

The Panthers aren't expected to compete in 2024, sitting with +800 odds to win the NFL South. If they make the correct roster moves now and draft properly, they could soon find themselves in line to win one of the NFL's worst divisions.

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