In a rare moment of candor that could stir waves in the Carolina Panthers organization, star edge rusher Brian Burns has publicly acknowledged friction with head coach Dave Canales, admitting that he “didn’t like his tactics from day one.” The statement, made during a post-practice interview, confirmed long-standing rumors about a disconnect between the team’s defensive cornerstone and the newly installed coaching regime.
Burns, who has been the Panthers’ defensive leader since being drafted in the first round in 2019, didn’t mince words when asked about the adjustment to Canales’ leadership style. “It’s not even about personality,” Burns said. “It’s about philosophy. From day one, I felt like what we were doing on defense didn’t match our identity. I didn’t like his tactics, and I let him know that.”
While Burns emphasized that he remains committed to the team and focused on winning, his comments shine a light on what appears to be a growing disconnect between veteran players and the direction of the franchise. Coach Canales, brought in to energize a struggling Panthers squad, has implemented significant changes both schematically and culturally. His emphasis on a collaborative, fast-paced environment has been welcomed by some—but not all.
“I understand he’s trying to build something,” Burns continued. “But when you’ve been here as long as I have, and you know what works and what doesn’t, it’s frustrating to feel like your voice isn’t being heard.”
Coach Canales responded with professionalism, acknowledging that Burns’ perspective is valid. “I respect Brian. He’s a cornerstone of this team,” Canales said. “And part of building a new culture is having tough conversations. We may not always agree, but the door is always open for communication.”
Burns’ honesty comes at a critical time. Entering the final year of his contract, and with extension talks stalled earlier this offseason, speculation about his long-term future in Carolina is heating up. Sources close to the team suggest that while a trade is not imminent, this latest development could accelerate discussions if common ground isn’t found soon.
For now, Burns remains a Panther. But his blunt assessment of the coaching approach suggests deeper issues beneath the surface of a team still trying to find its identity. Whether this becomes a turning point or the beginning of a larger fallout may depend on what happens next—on and off the field?