Panthers DE Brian Burns Practicing Wednesday; Play vs. Falcons?

The Atlanta Falcons will play the Carolina Panthers, but Brian Burns' status is up in the air as he negotiates a contract extension.

The Atlanta Falcons host the Carolina Panthers on Sunday, but two-time Pro Bowl defensive end Brian Burns may not be present for the NFC South rivalry game.

The 25-year-old edge rusher formerly out of Florida State has been engaged in contract negotiations with the Carolina Panthers, which has now carried over into the season. 

After not participating in practice last Thursday for the Panthers, Burns was also absent on Monday, raising concerns about whether or not he'll feature in the season opener against the Falcons. However, Burns was seen in uniform practicing with the Panthers on Wednesday.

Brian Burns is in uniform for practice. pic.twitter.com/sftN1AvUiv

— Joe Person (@josephperson) September 6, 2023

"Do I hope he's there vs. Atlanta? Absolutely," Panthers coach Frank Reich said about Burns during his Monday press conference. "But if he's not there, I'm not worried about it. Just move forward."

The uncertainty with Burns and a potential holdout comes after an ESPN interview where he said he doesn't want to miss out. 

“No fault to anybody who is not participating," Burns said recently. “But we’ve got something special, and I’m a big part of it, so I can’t miss no time. I’ve just got to be here."

That something special is likely the feeling that the Panthers can contend with the Falcons for the NFC South this season. After the retirement of Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady this offseason, the division looks ripe for the taking.

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Although on paper, the Falcons look to be further along in being able to contend. Entering Year 3 in the partnership of general manager Terry Fontenot and coach Arthur Smith, the Falcons look ready to end their postseason drought. 

After splashing the cash in free agency, thanks to having over $60 million in cap space, and landing what many believe to be one of the best players in the NFL Draft in first-round running back Bijan Robinson, the stars seem to be aligning for a Falcons playoff run.

However, before ending their postseason drought, they will look to end another in Week 1 against the Panthers, as they haven't won a season-opener since 2017. Not having to worry about facing Burns, who racked up 12.5 sacks last season, could make the task a little easier.