Rams Predicted to Trade For Panthers Star Brian Burns

Pro Football Network projects Brian Burns the Los Angeles Rams to trade for Carolina Panthers star Brian Burns this offseason.

As NFL free agency approaches, anticipation builds with the legal tampering period starting on March 11, followed by the official commencement on March 13. With teams gearing up for roster improvements, Pro Football Network made some interesting offseason predictions.

Carolina Panthers star Brian Burns has long been on the Los Angeles Rams' radar, with reports indicating their strong interest dating back to before the 2022 trade deadline. At that time, the Rams reportedly offered two first-round picks and a second-round selection for Burns, only to have the Panthers reject the proposal.

Burns has long been on the Los Angeles Rams' radar, with reports indicating their strong interest dating back to before the 2022 trade deadline.

 At that time, the Rams reportedly offered two first-round picks and a second-round selection for Burns, only to have the Carolina Panthers reject the proposal.

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Despite the unsuccessful attempt, Burns remained under contractual control for another 1.5 years. Now, as a pending free agent, the situation has shifted. While the Panthers have the option to franchise tag Burns and potentially negotiate a long-term deal, talks have remained stagnant for months.

Before the start of last season, Burns ended a two-day holdout seeking a deal averaging around $30 million annually. 

The Panthers reportedly offered up to five years at $27 million per year. This would have made Burns the NFL's third-highest-paid pass rusher behind Nick Bosa and T.J. Watt.

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Should the Panthers decide to part ways with Burns, the Rams could once again emerge as contenders for his services. While they may not be willing to offer a package as hefty as before, their first-round pick (No. 19) could be a tempting asset for Carolina.

If the Rams pursue Burns again and offer their first-round pick as part of the deal, it would result in another year without a first-round selection for the franchise. 

While some may question this strategy, the Rams have shown a commitment to prioritizing immediate impact over draft picks, a philosophy that has proven successful in recent years.