Brian Burns

Brian Burns is an active American professional football linebacker and elite edge rusher for the New York Giants of the National Football League (NFL).

Player Profile, High School, and College Career

Brian Burns was born on April 23, 1998, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA. The dynamic linebacker stands 196 cm tall, and carries a playing weight of 113 kg.

He attended American Heritage School in Plantation, Florida, where he developed into a highly coveted defensive prospect. He led his high school team to consecutive state titles in 2013 and 2014, eventually earning Sun-Sentinel Defensive Player of the Year honors as a senior while recording 28 sacks over his final two seasons.

Committing to Florida State University, Burns played for the Seminoles from 2016 to 2018. He made an immediate impact, racking up double-digit tackles for loss and demonstrating natural pass-rushing instincts.

His standout junior season in 2018—where he posted impressive sack and forced fumble numbers—earned him First-team All-ACC honors and solidified his status as a first-round talent ahead of the NFL Draft.

Professional Career

Burns was selected by the Carolina Panthers in the first round (16th overall) of the 2019 NFL Draft.

He seamlessly translated his collegiate production to the professional level, making his mark as a rookie with 7.5 sacks and a fumble recovery returned for a touchdown. Over his five seasons in Carolina, Burns became the undisputed anchor of the Panthers' pass rush.

Earning Pro Bowl selections in 2021 and 2022, he consistently placed among the league leaders in tackles for loss and quarterback pressures.

In March 2024, Burns was traded to the New York Giants in a blockbuster move and subsequently signed a lucrative contract extension. He instantly elevated the Giants' defensive front. His 2025 campaign was arguably the best of his career.

His relentless hustle and leadership earned him a Second-team All-Pro selection and a starting nod for the NFC squad at the 2026 Pro Bowl Games. Entering the 2026 season, Burns remains a defensive captain and the premier edge presence in New York.

Off the Field

Off the field, Burns is highly respected for his leadership and accountability inside the locker room. His "hustle plays" and work ethic—often demonstrated during grueling training camp sessions—set a high standard for his teammates. Football also runs in his family.

His older brother, Stanley McClover, was drafted by the Carolina Panthers in 2006.

Career Highlights

• 2025 – Second-team All-Pro
• 3× Pro Bowl Selection – 2021, 2022, 2025
• 2018 – First-team All-ACC selection at Florida State