Panthers GM says offensive line is ‘high on the list’ of priorities this year

INDIANAPOLIS — The Carolina Panthers are laying out their priorities this season as the NFL scouting combine gets underway in Indianapolis.

At the combine, the Panthers’ new head coach and general manager will be scouting fresh talent for the upcoming season.

GM Dan Morgan told reporters Tuesday that he’s scheduled to meet with linebacker Brian Burns’ agent soon.

“I think right now all options are on the table. What those options are, we’ll find out,” Morgan said.

Burns is a former first-round pick, two-time Pro-Bowler and now, pending free agent. At the podium, Morgan said using the franchise tag on Burns could be an option.

“We love Brian,” he said. “Brian’s a Panther, somebody that I know and that I am close to. I played with his brother so definitely love Brian, but all options are on the table for him.”

Morgan also said the team has “all intentions” to re-sign linebacker Frankie Luvu.

As for Derrick Brown, Morgan spoke with his agent and hopes to extend his contract at some point.

The Panthers’ new leadership also shared insight into their pursuit of a winning season. Morgan said addressing the offensive line will be “high on the list” this year.

“I think it’s pretty evident that our offensive line struggled at times last year,” Morgan said. “We’ve got to get better in that area and we’re going to do everything in our power to make that happen.”

Coach Dave Canales spoke about quarterback Bryce Young and how they’re focusing on him this season.

“You’re looking at an accurate player. A really smart player,” Canales said. “He’s aware of what’s happening, and we’ve got to build the whole thing around him -- something where we can say this is our identity.”

It’s an identity that’s largely in tact from last year’s top five defense, now that defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero and his staff are all returning.

“It was huge. That was the whole part of my master plan,” Canales said. “I’m like hey Mr. and Mrs. Tepper, I’ll fix the offense.”

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