The franchise tag appears to be inevitable for Brian Burns.
The Carolina Panthers have told their star pass rusher they’re ending long-term contract talks ahead of NFL free agency, according to CBS Sports’ Josina Anderson.
Burns, 25, can begin talking with other teams next Monday ahead of the official start of NFL free agency next Wednesday.
However, multiple recent reports have forecasted the Panthers placing the franchise tag on Burns; the franchise tag for linebackers this year costs $24 million.
Tuesday is the deadline for teams to use their franchise tag.
Panthers general manager Dan Morgan said at the NFL combine that using a franchise tag on Burns is something the team has considered.
“We would definitely use it if we had to use it,” Morgan said. “And we love Brian. Brian’s a Panther. Somebody that I know, that I’m close to. I played with his brother. So, definitely love Brian. But all options are on the table.”
The Panthers would have until July 15 to negotiate a long-term deal with Burns if they place the franchise tag on him.
Carolina hasn’t used their franchise tag since 2021, and if they choose not to again this year, Burns will have plenty of options in the open market.
According to ESPN’s David Newton, Burns was reportedly seeking a contract worth around $30 million last year, while the Panthers offered him something in the range of $27 million a year for five years.
Last season, Burns recorded 50 tackles, eight sacks, and forced a fumble.
Across his five-year career, the linebacker out of Florida State has 151 tackles, 59 of those for a loss, 46 sacks and eight forced fumbles.
He was a Pro Bowler in 2021 and ’22.