Brian Burns trade inquiries rejected by Panthers, sources say

Carolina Panthers star pass-rusher Brian Burns was in high demand before and during the NFL trade deadline for the second consecutive year. Sources from ESPN have revealed that at least five teams expressed interest in acquiring the two-time Pro Bowl linebacker.

Among the teams that showed interest in Burns were the Chicago Bears, San Francisco 49ers, Jacksonville Jaguars, Atlanta Falcons, and Baltimore Ravens. However, the Panthers promptly dismissed any inquiries and made it clear that they had no intention of trading Burns, who is highly coveted.

In the previous season, the Los Angeles Rams made a significant offer of two first-round draft picks to the Panthers for Burns, but Carolina decided to retain him.

Looking ahead, there remain uncertainties for Burns as he is in the final year of his contract and is set to become a free agent after this season. If both parties fail to reach a long-term agreement, the Panthers are expected to use their franchise tag on Burns for the next year.

In his fifth season with the Panthers, the 25-year-old Burns has emerged as a defensive leader with five sacks in seven games this year.