Brian Burns Reveals His Relentless Pursuit of NFL Greatness: From Chasing Records to Embracing the 'Psycho' Mindset
In a candid interview with The Post, New York Giants pass rusher Brian Burns opens up about his ambitious chase of Michael Strahan’s iconic single-season sack record of 22.5. But here’s where it gets controversial: Burns believes achieving such a feat isn’t just about skill—it’s about timing, luck, and everything falling perfectly into place. “You can’t miss any sacks, miss any opportunities,” he explains. “It’s possible, but everything’s got to go right.” With seven sacks so far, Burns is on a trajectory that could put him in the conversation, but he admits it would take “a couple of big games” to truly set him apart. And this is the part most people miss: Burns isn’t just chasing records; he’s driven by a deeper motivation—proving himself right in the face of doubters who once labeled him “too small” or “can’t play the run.”
When asked about his on-field mentality, Burns reveals a pragmatic approach: “I’m not trying to make every play. I’m just wired to focus on what’s in front of me.” This laser-like focus extends to his admiration for fellow pass rushers like Von Miller, Jason Taylor, and Maxx Crosby, whose techniques he’s studied meticulously. But what really stands out is his take on Cam Skattebo, a teammate he describes as a “genuine ball of energy” with an “I don’t give a f–k” mentality. “You need psychos on your team sometimes,” Burns boldly states, drawing a comparison to the relentless Frankie Luvu. This interpretation of Skattebo’s mindset is sure to spark debate—is such aggression a strength or a liability? Weigh in below!
Off the field, Burns shares personal stories that humanize the star athlete. From overcoming family tragedies, including the loss of his grandfather, to balancing the highs and lows of playing on the New York stage, he remains grounded. His leadership style? “More about action than motivational speeches.” And when it comes to giving back, the Brian Burns Family Foundation is making waves, supporting causes like autism awareness and community charities. “There’s a lot of people dealing with challenges on their own,” he reflects. “I want to bring some light and help people out.”
As Burns looks ahead to facing old friends like Nik Bonitto and Patrick Surtain II, he’s clear about his priorities: “It’s going to be fun, but hopefully we’re on the winning side.” His message to Giants fans? “We’re going to turn this thing around. As long as they keep showing up for us, we’re going to show out for them.”
Thought-provoking question for you: Do you think Brian Burns’ relentless pursuit of Strahan’s record is realistic, or is he underestimating the role of luck and circumstance? Let us know in the comments!
