Panthers Expected To Franchise Tag Brian Burns

ESPN's Jeremy Fowler writes that it feels like a formality that the Carolina Panthers will place the franchise tag on impending free-agent linebacker Brian Burns this offseason. Burns is too talented to let walk in free agency without the chance at an outright signing or a tag-and-trade. The Panthers will also likely look to re-sign linebacker Frankie Luvu as they begin their rebuild. Carolina's offense was atrocious in 2023, but their defense was a strength, so it makes sense for them to look to bring back their key playmakers on that side of the ball. The 25-year-old Burns finished last year with 50 tackles (32 solo), a team-high eight sacks, one forced fumble and a fumble recovery in 16 games. He's had at least 7.5 sacks in each of his five NFL seasons and is in play as an every-week starter in IDP fantasy formats.