Breaking: Giants Are Set To Land Major Trade Deal For $141 Million Star After NFL Draft

The New York Giants used the third overall pick to draft edge rusher Abdul Carter, a decision that might unintentionally mark the end of Brian Burns’ time with the team. Burns, a former first-rounder acquired from the Carolina Panthers last offseason, signed a huge $141 million deal and was expected to create a dominant pass-rushing duo alongside Kayvon Thibodeaux. In his first season with the Giants, Burns put up respectable numbers—8.5 sacks and a 79.2 PFF grade, ranking 19th in the league.

Unfortunately, that might not be enough to secure his future with the team. Abdul Carter is a top-tier prospect expected to start right away, and Giants GM Joe Schoen has confirmed the team will pick up Kayvon Thibodeaux’s fifth-year option, keeping him under contract for two more seasons. While it’s true that you can never have too many pass rushers, the depth could force someone into a lesser, rotational role. Given the circumstances, Brian Burns could be the one on the outside looking in—especially if the Giants can get solid value in return through a trade.

Brian Burns Could Be On the Trade Block Following the Abdul Carter Selection

Possible Fits

Carolina Panthers

Why not bring him back? The Carolina Panthers originally invested a first-round pick in Brian Burns, so a reunion would be fitting as they work to develop Bryce Young into their franchise quarterback. With Tetairoa McMillan added to the offense, the team now has enough firepower to compete in the underwhelming NFC South. However, the defensive front remains a major weakness—Carolina still lacks a true edge rusher to anchor the unit. Burns would be an ideal solution, and given his familiarity with the organization and scheme, the Panthers should seriously consider giving up a second-round pick to reacquire him.

Arizona Cardinals

The Arizona Cardinals took a step in the right direction by drafting defensive tackle Walter Nolen to bolster their interior, but the job isn’t finished. Nolen can anchor the middle, but the defense still lacks a true edge presence to generate outside pressure. Brian Burns would be a perfect fit in Jonathan Gannon’s system, bringing proven pass-rushing ability to a team in need. With Gannon under pressure to make the playoffs in 2025—since coaches often don’t survive three straight losing seasons—adding a player like Burns could be crucial to turning things around and keeping his job.

New England Patriots

The New England Patriots made a smart move by drafting LSU’s Will Campbell to shore up the offensive line in the first round. Now, it’s time to turn their attention to the defense. While Keion White is a dependable rotational piece, his issues defending the run raise concerns about his ability to handle a starting role. Brian Burns would be a perfect addition to Mike Vrabel’s defense—especially with Abdul Carter’s arrival in New York making Burns potentially available. With ample cap space, the Patriots are in a strong position to absorb Burns’ contract without jeopardizing their long-term plans to build a consistent contender.

New Orleans Saints

General Manager Mickey Loomis has never been one to embrace a rebuild. Even with Derek Carr’s future up in the air, Loomis is expected to stay aggressive and make a push in the wide-open NFC South. The Saints have already added Chase Young to bolster their pass rush, but that shouldn’t deter them from pursuing Brian Burns. Fitting his contract under the cap would be a challenge—but if there’s anyone who can make the numbers work, it’s Loomis, who has a long track record of creative salary cap management.