EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — Ahead of Sunday’s game in Germany against the Carolina Panthers, Giants linebacker Brian Burns is not focused on proving a point to his former teammates. Burns, who played for the Panthers for five seasons after being drafted in the first round of 2019, established himself as one of the league’s premier edge rushers and a significant presence in Carolina’s defense.

At just 26 years old, the Florida State alum initially believed his entire career would unfold in North Carolina. However, the recent changes during his last two seasons with the Panthers shifted that outlook as the team struggled, trading away key players like running back Christian McCaffrey, wide receiver DJ Moore, and defensive tackle Vernon Butler.

During his time in Carolina, Burns tallied an impressive 46 sacks. Nevertheless, in March, he was traded to the Giants in exchange for a second-round draft pick in 2024 and a fifth-round selection the following year. On Wednesday, following a Giants practice, he commented, “Business is business. Business happened. I’m happy where I am. I’m blessed.”

Despite grappling with a persistent groin injury since his third game, Burns has performed admirably for New York, recording five sacks, 36 tackles, seven tackles for loss, and seven passes defensed. His performance has steadily improved after what started as a slower beginning to the season.

Burns did not request a trade after the Panthers underwent a rough season, finishing with a 2-15 record in 2023. He was hopeful about the opportunity in New York. The Giants had reached the playoffs in 2022 under new head coach Brian Daboll but struggled last season with a 6-11 finish. The addition of Burns, the drafting of wide receiver Malik Nabers with the sixth overall pick, and the recovery of quarterback Daniel Jones from knee surgery brought him optimism for a turnaround.

Unfortunately, the Giants have faced challenges in scoring this season. Following this weekend’s matchup, they will be on a bye week, with outside linebacker Kayvon Thibodeaux expected to return afterward.

When comparing the Panthers and the Giants, Burns insisted that it is difficult as both teams possess unique circumstances and challenges. He mentioned having limited opportunities to bid farewell to many people in Carolina after his trade. However, he still maintains contact with several current and former Panthers, including linebacker Shaq Thompson, defensive back Jaycee Horn, along with defensive end Yetur Gross-Matos from San Francisco, and linebacker Frankie Luvu from Washington.