3 Panthers to watch against the Browns in Week 1

The Cleveland Browns open up the 2022 campaign against the Carolina Panthers. Here are three players to watch on the Panthers. 

We have finally reached game week which means we are only a few nights of sleep away from Cleveland Browns football. There is a lot to discuss to break down how the team will fare against the Carolina Panthers, led by former Browns quarterback, Baker Mayfield.

The Browns will look to knock off the Panthers for their first season-opening victory since 2004. We all know about all of the different changes Cleveland has gone through this offseason and now it’s time to get to work.

These three players need to be watched this weekend as they could play a major part in ensuring the Browns don’t get a win in the season opener.

3 Players to Watch Against the Browns in Week 1

3. Brian Burns – EDGE Rusher

Starting off, we will take a look at the No. 76 player on the NFL Top-100 List, EDGE rusher, Brian Burns. He was the lone Panther on this year’s list and is looking to build off three successful professional seasons.

Burns made the Pro Bowl in 2021 after an impressive season. He racked up nine sacks (matching his 2020 total, had 7.5 as a rookie), 50 tackles – 13 going for a loss – 18 quarterback hits, 31 pressures, four passes defensed, and two forced fumbles while playing in 77 percent of defensive snaps.

The former 2019 16th overall pick in the NFL Draft will look to hit the double-digit sack total in 2022 and that starts by getting after Jacoby Brissett on Sunday afternoon. Last season he had help with teammate Hasson Riddick, who racked up 11 sacks, but has moved on to the Philadelphia Eagles.

The Browns offensive line will have their work cut out for them this Sunday and if they can keep Burns at bay, they will put Brissett in a better position to make the necessary plays to help win the game. If Burns is able to get after Brissett early and often, then it could spell disaster for Cleveland in Week 1.