New York Giants edge rusher Brian Burns entered this season as a trade acquisition that will help change the culture of a losing team.
So far, Burns has not been successful. The Giants have won just twice through the first 15 weeks of the season, but that doesn’t mean he hasn’t made an impression on the field and in the locker room.
Burns, who has 8.0 sacks on the season and is not done yet, has dealt with nagging injuries and has rarely been on the field, playing more than 82% of defensive snaps this season.
“Yeah, he’s a competitive young man,” coach Brian Daboll said Monday. “He’s been productive for us. It’s been tough, but he’s been here and overcome some challenges, including cuts and bruises, and has taken on a great leadership role for us. “I’m glad I have him.”
Burns filled a leadership void due to the departure or injury of many of the team’s captains. The six-year veteran, who began his career with the Carolina Panthers, took charge but never forgot that this was a team game.
“I’m proud of the guys who stepped up with Dex out and Bobby (Okereke) out,” Burns said after the Giants’ 14-11 loss to the New Orleans Saints last week.
“They did a great job. Some of those young people have never played a game before. So I’m very proud of how they handled themselves today.”
The Giants have a long way to go to be competitive again, but they have several pieces and strengths they need to improve on going forward.
Burns was one of them.
