Panthers top pass rusher Brian Burns undergoes offseason ankle surgery before NFL draft
The Panthers’ top pass rusher is recovering from offseason surgery.
EDGE rusher Brian Burns underwent a procedure on his ankle last week, the team announced Monday. According to the Panthers, Burns is expected to recover “with no limitations” for the start of training camp.
According to the team website, a small ankle fracture was revealed during tests last week. Burns missed last season’s finale against the New Orleans Saints because of a reported ankle sprain.
Burns, who is entering the fifth-year option of his rookie contract, is expected to receive a long-term contract extension in the near future. He produced a career-high 12.5 sacks last season and made his second Pro Bowl.
Burns, who turned 25 on Sunday, has 38 career sacks and seven forced fumbles. The Panthers have declined trade inquiries for Burns during the past year because the franchise views him as a long-term pillar of the organization.
With Burns sidelined, the Panthers will need to rely on Yetur Gross-Matos, Amare Barno and Marquis Haynes at the position during the offseason program. The Panthers are also expected to add an EDGE rusher in this week’s NFL draft.
The Panthers own the No. 39 and No. 93 picks on Day 2 of the NFL draft. After selecting a quarterback with the first overall pick, the Panthers could look to improve their EDGE spot with a pick in the second or third round.
This story was originally published April 24, 2023 at 9:03 PM.
