Giants’ Burns: ‘Business is business’ vs. Panthers

New York Giants outside linebacker Brian Burns doesn’t hold any ill will toward his former team, the Carolina Panthers, ahead of their clash Sunday in Munich.

“No, like I said, business is business,” Burns told reporters Wednesday when asked if he felt any additional motivation to beat his old team. “Business happened. I’m happy where I am. I’m blessed.”

He added: “I respect those people in that building, that organization. Like I said, I’m blessed. There isn’t really too much to speak on. I’m happy where I am now, and I’m just trying to make this team win.”

Carolina traded Burns to the Giants in March for a 2024 second-round draft pick and a 2025 fifth-round selection. The star pass-rusher then agreed to a five-year, $141-million contract that included $87.5 million guaranteed.

Burns, a 2019 first-round pick, recorded 59 tackles for loss and 46 sacks during his five seasons with the Panthers. The Florida State product said he didn’t request a trade but was “excited to start a new opportunity” with the Giants.

“I wouldn’t say a surprise. … I would say you could kind of feel the direction it was going in,” Burns said when asked if he was surprised that he was traded.

He’s made an immediate impact for New York, recording seven tackles for loss plus five sacks and leading the team with 35 pressures through nine games. The two-time Pro Bowler bolsters a formidable defensive front that also features Dexter Lawrence and Kayvon Thibodeaux.

“He’s been a good addition for us,” head coach Brian Daboll said about Burns, per team reporter Matt Citak. “Good leadership, good player for us. Glad we got him.”

The Giants (2-7) will attempt to halt their four-game losing skid against the Panthers (2-7) on Sunday. It’s the only NFL game in Germany among this season’s five international contests.