The New York Giants traded for Carolina Panthers pass rusher Brian Burns in 2023, but there is a chance he could be on the move once again. For a team that has just two wins on the season, they should be sellers.
On the flip side, the Chicago Bears are a team that can legitimately be buyers, and after losing edge rusher Dayo Odeingbo for the season, they have a serious need at pass rusher.
THIS IS A PREDICTION, NOT A REPORT.
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Brian Burns to the Chicago Burns: Trade Proposal
Chicago Bears receive: EDGE Brian Burns
New York Giants receive: 2026 CHI 1st Round
Why the Bears Could Be Buyers
Chicago’s offense has shown enough promise to believe they can contend in the next 1-2 seasons, but their defense—especially their pass rush—has lagged. Adding Burns would give them:
A proven, high-impact edge-rusher who consistently pressures quarterbacks and elevates an otherwise middle-of-the-pack defense. Per his 2025 run with the Giants, Burns has tallied 11 sacks through nine games.
The kind of star addition that signals “we’re in win-now mode,” which could help retain free agents and energize the fanbase. A piece that immediately upgrades their front four without waiting on a rookie to develop.
Given the Bears’ need for a pass-rusher and their relatively clean cap space, pursuing Burns makes strategic sense.
Why the Giants Might Consider Moving Him
Although Burns remains an elite player, there are reasons the Giants might be open to trading him: His contract is significant: a 5-year, $141 million deal with about $87.5 million guaranteed.
The Giants have other edge-rush assets emerging—they drafted Abdul Carter with a high pick and already have Burns locked in, which may lead to redundancy or cap constraints.
If the Giants’ long-term plan shifts toward a younger core or different allocation of resources, trading a high-value veteran could generate premium draft capital. So, while Burns is performing, the Giants’ strategic context might allow for his inclusion in trade discussions.
The Impact of the Trade Proposal
For Chicago, acquiring Burns could accelerate their trajectory toward playoff contention. It would upgrade a defensive weakness and send a clear message: we believe in this roster and are not waiting. For the Giants, trading Burns would allow them to re-tool, reallocate cap space, and accumulate picks to build around emerging talent.
If this trade were to happen, it could redefine the outlook of both franchises: the Bears pushing now and the Giants resetting smartly.
