Panthers' linebacker Brian Burns says contract talks 'on hold' - ESPN

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — As far outside linebacker Brian Burns is concerned talks between his representatives and the Carolina Panthers about a contract extension are «on hold.''

»We haven't really been in talks,'' Burns said Saturday as he prepared for Monday night's NFC South game against the New Orleans Saints. «I told them once the season started I'm all about ball. I can't give a thousand percent on the field and to my teammates if I'm still worried about contract negotiations.

»I feel like I owe that to them to be 100 percent, a thousand percent at all times.''

Burns admitted after getting two sacks in Sunday's opener, a 24-10 loss to the Atlanta Falcons, that he considered a holdout. He didn't because he feels like the Carolina defense can be special and he's a big part of that.

The 16th pick of the 2019 draft never has wavered from wanting to be paid among the highest-paid edge rushers in the league. But when negotiations ended before the opener the sides weren't close, according to multiple league sources.

Burns, 25, is playing under the fifth-year option of his rookie deal that pays him $16 million this season. According to a league source, the Panthers are willing to negotiate into the season.

Burns didn't completely shut the door on listening, but when asked about his current contract strategy, he said, «We haven't spoken on any strategy just yet. My main thought is just football.''

Reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year Nick Bosa of the San Francisco 49ers averages $34 million after reaching a five-year, $170 million deal last week that made him the highest paid defensive player in league history.

T.J. Watt of the Pittsburgh Steelers is second among edge rushers with an average of $28 million a year, followed by