'Hard Knocks' offers behind-the-scenes look at Giants' trade for Brian Burns from Panthers

Hard Knocks: Offseason with the New York Giants airs Tuesdays at 9 p.m. ET on HBO through July 30 and is available to stream on Max.

At times, simply asking doesn’t cause any harm.

Giants general manager Joe Schoen bolstered New York’s pass rush this offseason with the acquisition of Brian Burns, and it all began with a seemingly casual conversation with Panthers GM Dan Morgan on the practice field during this year’s Senior Bowl.

The behind-the-scenes look at what led up to the Giants’ deal for Burns can be seen in Tuesday night’s season premiere of Hard Knocks: Offseason with the New York Giants.

The story started when Schoen inquired if Morgan and the Panthers were interested in trading into the first round for the Giants’ No. 6 overall pick. Morgan responded promptly with a refusal, stating his intention of going back if he were to go anywhere. However, he soon informed Schoen that the Panthers’ franchise-tagged pass rusher was definitely up for grabs.

“Would you like to provide us with two ones for Burns?” Morgan inquired.

Schoen’s interest was notably piqued by that question, evident by his enticing “Ooh!” This excitement sparked initial discussions of what was on the verge of becoming a major trade deal.

“Schoen replied sheepishly, “No. I mean, yes, but…”

“Or one plus something,” Morgan negotiated.

“Alright,” said Schoen, “you’re going the right way.”

A month later, the Giants made a trade deal with the Panthers. They provided the Panthers with their second- and fifth-round picks for 2024 (numbered 39 and 141 overall) and a conditional fifth-rounder in 2025 in exchange for Burns and a fourth-round pick (number 166) in 2024. Immediately after acquiring the linebacker, New York signed Burns to a substantial five-year contract worth $150 million.

The Giants’ trade talks for Burns certainly included a long-term deal. Burns, who has been on the market since last year, has been stuck in ongoing negotiation difficulties with the Panthers.

Ultimately, it appears that all parties involved found a resolution, and the Giants have undoubtedly transformed their defensive front into a significant strength for the foreseeable future.

Burns, 26, produced 46.0 sacks, 95 QB hits, 59 tackles for loss, eight forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries (one TD return) in five seasons with Carolina. He’ll team up with budding pass rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux, who’s coming off a breakout 11.5-sack season in 2023 and is now eyeing the single-season sack record upon Burns’ arrival. With two-time Pro Bowler Dexter Lawrence manning the interior, opposing quarterbacks will certainly be weary of the Giants in 2024.

Perhaps the best part of it all for Schoen is that he never did have to give up a first-round pick for Burns, let alone two. The Giants drafted wide receiver Malik Nabers with that sixth-overall selection, and Daniel Jones‘ targets have never been beaming with such talent ahead of what many believe to be a make-or-break season for the quarterback.

Schoen’s third offseason as the General Manager of the Giants certainly positioned New York for success, especially following a disappointing 2023. Without his proactive approach and effort, this might not have been possible.