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The Myth That Brian Burns and Kayvon Thibodeaux Are Busts Is Laughable

The notion that Brian Burns and Kayvon Thibodeaux are somehow busts because they don’t have the most eye-popping sack numbers is completely absurd. This takes an incredibly narrow view of their performances and ignores the broader context of their situations. Let’s take a step back and actually analyze the bigger picture before rushing to judgment.


Injuries Matter


First and foremost, Kayvon Thibodeaux missed games this year due to injuries. You can’t expect a player to rack up numbers when he’s not on the field. Availability is important, yes, but it’s not as though Thibodeaux is injury-prone or underperforming when healthy. This is part of the game, and he has plenty of time to bounce back.


Defensive Context


How can anyone expect Burns or Thibodeaux to consistently get to the quarterback when their defense as a whole is failing them? Consider these two key issues:


1. Run Defense: Teams are running the ball down their defense's throat. If the defensive line and linebackers can’t stop the run, it puts the pass rushers in a no-win situation. Opposing offenses can stay ahead of the chains and neutralize any aggressive pass-rushing schemes.



2. Secondary Woes: Let’s be honest—the secondary was horrible this year. Teams didn’t have to hold the ball long to find an open receiver. The defensive backs and the second inside linebacker struggled, which means quarterbacks weren’t under much pressure to wait in the pocket. It’s hard for Burns and Thibodeaux to rack up sacks when opposing offenses can dink and dunk their way down the field or hit quick reads without a fight.




The Bigger Picture: Support Is Key


This isn't a Brian Burns or Kayvon Thibodeaux problem—it’s a systemic defensive issue. Fix the holes in the secondary, particularly at the #1 cornerback position, and upgrade the second inside linebacker spot, and you’ll see an immediate difference. With better coverage, quarterbacks will have to hold the ball longer, creating more sack opportunities for the edge rushers.


Thibodeaux and Burns have all the talent in the world, but football is a team sport. They can’t do it alone, and their effectiveness is directly impacted by the performance of those around them. Give them a competent defense to work with, and their numbers will reflect their true ability.


A Bright Future


If the front office addresses these key issues in the offseason, expect Burns and Thibodeaux to have breakout seasons. These two are far from busts—they’re high-caliber players in need of a better supporting cast. It’s time to stop scapegoating them and focus on fixing the actual problems holding this defense back.


The bottom line

 

Don’t judge edge rushers by sacks alone. Context matters, and Burns and Thibodeaux are only scratching the surface of their potential. With the right adjustments, they’ll silence the doubters and prove why they’re cornerstones for the future.



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