‘Hard Knocks’ offers behind-the-scenes look at Giants’ trade for Brian Burns from Panthers

It all began with Schoen asking Morgan if the Panthers had any interest trading into the first round for the Giants’ No. 6 overall pick. Morgan quickly declined, saying, “If I’m going anywhere, it’s going back.” But he’d soon let Schoen know that the Panthers’ franchise-tagged pass rusher was certainly available.

“You wanna give us two ones for Burns?” Morgan asked.

That question piqued Schoen’s interest as he let out a mouthwatering “Ooh!” His excitement led to early talks of what would soon become a blockbuster trade.

“No. I mean, yes, but…,” Schoen sheepishly replied.

“Or a one and something,” Morgan haggled.

“OK,” Schoen said. “You’re headed in the right direction.”

One month later, the Giants traded 2024 second- and fifth-round selections (Nos. 39 and 141 overall, respectively) and a 2025 conditional fifth-rounder to the Panthers for Burns and a 2024 fourth-round pick (No. 166). New York quickly locked in Burns for the long haul upon acquiring the linebacker, signing him to a five-year, $150 million contract.

A long-term deal was certainly part of the Giants’ trade discussions for Burns, who’d been on the market dating back to last year as negotiations with the Panthers hit a continuous rut.

In the end, all parties involved seemingly found a resolution and the Giants have no doubt turned their defensive front into a bona fide strength for the foreseeable future.

Burns, 26, produced 46.0 sacks, 95 QB hits, 59 tackles for loss, eight forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries (one TD return) in five seasons with Carolina. He’ll team up with budding pass rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux, who’s coming off a breakout 11.5-sack season in 2023 and is now eyeing the single-season sack record upon Burns’ arrival. With two-time Pro Bowler Dexter Lawrence manning the interior, opposing quarterbacks will certainly be weary of the Giants in 2024.

Perhaps the best part of it all for Schoen is that he never did have to give up a first-round pick for Burns, let alone two. The Giants drafted wide receiver Malik Nabers with that sixth-overall selection, and Daniel Jones‘ targets have never been beaming with such talent ahead of what many believe to be a make-or-break season for the quarterback.

Schoen’s third offseason as Giants GM certainly set New York for success coming off a disappointing 2023. It might not have happened without him kicking the tires.