Can Nic Scourton Become What Brian Burns Was for the Panthers?
When the Carolina Panthers traded Brian Burns to the New York Giants in 2024, it marked the end of a dominant era for one of the league’s most explosive edge rushers. Burns, a 2019 first-round pick, developed into the heart of Carolina’s pass rush, recording 46 sacks over five seasons and earning two Pro Bowl nods. Now, with the Panthers in full rebuild mode, attention has turned to Nic Scourton — a promising young talent with the potential to fill those very big shoes.
But can Scourton truly become what Burns was for the Panthers?
Scourton’s Profile: The Blueprint of a Breakout Star
Nic Scourton, who transferred from Purdue to Texas A&M for his final collegiate season, possesses all the traits you look for in a modern edge defender. Standing 6’4”, 280 pounds with freakish athleticism, he brings a rare blend of speed, power, and versatility. At Purdue, he posted 10 sacks and 15 tackles for loss in 2023, showcasing a relentless motor and a knack for making impact plays in key moments.
What separates Scourton from your average prospect is his ceiling. His first step is explosive, his hands are violent, and his football IQ is steadily rising. In terms of raw tools, he compares favorably to what Burns brought to the league as a rookie — if not slightly more built for the run game.
Burns’ Legacy: Consistency, Disruption, Leadership
To become what Burns was, however, Scourton will have to do more than flash. Burns wasn’t just a sack artist — he was a culture setter. His consistency, leadership, and ability to influence offensive game plans made him a rare defensive cornerstone. Every offensive coordinator knew where No. 53 lined up.
Burns also brought durability, playing in 80 of 83 games during his time with Carolina. He set the tone for a defense that struggled in other areas but could always count on its pass rush to make a statement.
What Scourton Must Do
To reach that same echelon, Scourton will need:
- Time and Reps – Burns didn’t hit double-digit sacks until his third year. Edge development takes time, and Scourton must be given room to grow without unreasonable expectations.
- Scheme Fit – Defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero’s scheme will be crucial. Burns thrived in a hybrid front that maximized his speed. Scourton, a bit bulkier, will need creative deployment to unlock his full impact.
- Motor and Mentorship – One of Burns’ underrated traits was his non-stop motor. If Scourton matches that energy and can learn from veterans around him, the leap could happen faster.
Final Verdict: The Tools Are There
Can Nic Scourton become what Brian Burns was for the Panthers? He absolutely has the physical tools and upside to do so — perhaps with even greater run-stopping potential. But what made Burns special wasn’t just athleticism; it was the maturity, leadership, and relentless pursuit of greatness.
Scourton is still a moldable block of granite. Whether he’s sculpted into a franchise cornerstone or simply a rotational disruptor will depend on development, opportunity, and mindset. The Panthers bet on the future when they let Burns walk. Now it’s Scourton’s turn to make them look smart.