The New York Giants have a new coaching staff running the show, which has led to additions and departures. The biggest loss on the defensive line was Dexter Lawrence, who was traded to the Cincinnati Bengals.
While that's definitely a loss, it only highlights the importance of defensive end Brian Burns to this team. CBS Sports' Zachary Pereles dropped an article ranking the 100 most important players for the 2026 season.
Burns came in at No. 55 on the list, but Pereles wants to know how he'll look in 2026 without Lawrence in the middle commanding attention. That's a valid question, but over the last two years, Burns has shown how impactful he is to that defense.
Brian Burns is a driving force for Giants defense
In the last two years with Big Blue, Burns has been able to generate pressure and wreak havoc on opposing quarterbacks, logging 25 sacks over 34 games. Last season, he exploded for a career-high 16.5 sacks. He also racked up 53 total pressures, 24 hurries, and seven pass deflections.
It's also clear that Burns was New York's best pass rusher, and the more success he has, the better off the defense will be. Considering that Lawrence is no longer around to steal attention from opposing offensive linemen, teams will pivot over to Burns.
There will be game plans crafted on slowing him down, and if he continues to produce at the rate he's shown throughout his career, it will only benefit the defense. The Giants' defensive line still has Abdul Carter, who they believe will take a step in his sophomore season. Kayvon Thibodeaux is another option up front who should have success getting after the quarterback.
But the more accomplishments Burns has will positively impact these players in 2026. New York has a lot of talent in their front seven, especially after adding Arvell Reese and Tremaine Edmunds this offseason.
Despite these additions, Burns is the player who stands out as their most talented defensive piece. That's telling and shows the impact he brings to that side of the ball. People inside that building know his importance, and he'll be someone fans pay close attention to in 2026 to see if he can replicate the same success.
The more impactful the Florida State product is, the better that unit will be. Malik Nabers and Jaxson Dart were two Giants players on that list. The fact that Burns was the only defensive side named shows why he's one of the top dogs on that team and the impact he brings forward. Giants fans know that, making the 2026 season more exciting as it approaches.
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