3 offseason moves from NFC East rivals that should terrify Commanders fans
By Dean Jones
Brian Burns
Daniel Jones' contract has prevented the New York Giants from being big players in free agency. That said, there was one move that sent shockwaves across the NFC East. One that should not go unnoticed by the Washington Commanders.
The Giants took advantage of complete contract mismanagement by the Carolina Panthers to secure the services of stud edge rusher Brian Burns via trade. This cost nothing more than second and fifth-round picks - coupled with a late-round swap - in compensation for a two-time Pro Bowler only just entering his prime.
Burns is a high-level performer and one of the most explosive pass-rushers anywhere in the league. His first step is nothing short of extraordinary, which is matched by an elite spin move and improving speed-to-power techniques that make life extremely difficult for opposing offensive linemen.
Putting Burns on a front that also includes Dexter Lawrence and Kayvon Thibodeaux is a scary proposition to overcome. The Panthers were talent-deficient around the former first-round pick aside from Derrick Brown. This extra space could be exactly what the player needs to potentially enter the top tier of edge performers moving forward.
This raises the urgency surrounding the Commanders' offensive tackle options. They must find a long-term left tackle during the draft to counteract the threats posed by Burns and Bryce Huff. Anything less could see Washington's new quarterback put under significant duress during their pivotal transition.