It all started when Schoen asked Morgan if the Panthers had interest in trading up in the first round for the Giants’ No. 6 overall pick. Morgan quickly declined the offer, saying, “If I’m going anywhere, it’s back.” But he soon let Schoen know that the Panthers’ franchise-tagged pass rusher was certainly available.
“You want to give us two for Burns?” Morgan asked.
That question piqued Schoen’s interest, and he exclaimed, “Ooh!” His enthusiasm led to talk of what would soon become a big deal.
—No, I mean yes, but… —Schoen replied timidly.
“Or a one and something,” Morgan bargained.
“It’s okay,” Schoen said. “You’re on the right track.”
A month later, the Giants traded 2024 second- and fifth-round picks (Nos. 39 and 141 overall, respectively) and a conditional 2025 fifth-round pick to the Panthers for Burns and a 2024 fourth-round pick (No. 166). New York quickly locked up Burns long-term after acquiring the linebacker, signing him to a five-year, $150 million contract.
A long-term deal was certainly part of the Giants’ trade discussions for Burns, who had been on the market since last year as negotiations with the Panthers continually stalled.
In the end, all parties involved seemingly found a solution and the Giants have undoubtedly turned their defensive front into a true strength for the foreseeable future.
Burns, 26, produced 46.0 sacks, 95 quarterback hits, 59 tackles for loss, eight forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries (one returned touchdown) in five seasons with Carolina. He’ll team with up-and-coming pass rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux, who is coming off a breakout season with 11.5 sacks in 2023 and is now gunning for the single-season sack record with Burns’ arrival. With two-time Pro Bowler Dexter Lawrence manning the interior, opposing quarterbacks will surely be weary of the Giants in 2024.
Perhaps the best part of all this for Schoen is that he never had to give up a first-round pick for Burns, let alone two. The Giants selected wide receiver Malik Nabers with that sixth overall pick, and Daniel Jones’ targets have never been aglow with so much talent ahead of what many believe will be a make-or-break season for the quarterback.
Schoen’s third offseason as Giants GM certainly set New York up for success after a disappointing 2023. It might not have happened without him testing the tires.
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