The New York Giants defense is undergoing a major transformation heading into the 2026 season, and all eyes are on Brian Burns to lead the charge. With the departure of longtime defensive anchor Dexter Lawrence, the pass-rushing star is stepping into a new role as the unit's centerpiece and unquestioned leader.
"That's how I'm kinda looking at it," Burns said Tuesday night when asked about embracing a larger leadership role. "It's kind of a nod to what I've done and the success that I've had, but I don't take that lightly at all, and I'm very grateful for the opportunity."
The Giants defense enters uncharted territory after losing Lawrence, a dominant force in the middle of the line. Burns admitted earlier this offseason that playing without his teammate would be a tough adjustment. "Speaking for me, the Giants ain't the Giants without No. 97 in the middle," Burns told The Post in April. "That's my boy. I don't want to play this season or any other season without him."
Despite those concerns, Burns understands the franchise needs someone to step up and drive the defense forward—especially as the team looks to shake years of inconsistency under head coach John Harbaugh. And Burns has the numbers to back up his new status. The 2025 season saw him rack up 10.5 sacks, 68 total tackles, 18 tackles for loss, and 24 quarterback hits. His explosive speed off the edge and knack for disrupting opposing quarterbacks make him the focal point of New York's defensive attack.
The Giants haven't left Burns to carry the load alone. The front office made several key additions this offseason, including rookie linebacker Arvell Reese—selected fifth overall in the NFL Draft—alongside veterans Tremaine Edmunds, DJ Reader, Shelby Harris, and Greg Newsome II. These new faces bring a mix of youth and experience to a defense hungry to climb back into contention.
For Burns, the mission is clear: he's no longer just a star pass rusher. He's now the tone-setter, the leader, and the face of a defense hoping to write a new chapter in Giants history.