Ron Rivera upbeat about drafting Brian Burns and the impact he will make on the NFL

The 2019 NFL Draft headed toward record territory in the early goings. The Carolina Panthers were a part of that milestone.

There were 11 defensive linemen selected in the first round including the Carolina Panthers' pick at the 16th spot. While some believed the Panthers might try to move up to claim more highly touted pass rushers, the team stayed in line with their early interests. They stuck with the sixteenth spot and chose DE Brian Burns from Florida State.

The 6-5 240 plus pound Burns will likely be a key force for the Carolina defense which is dealing with the retirement of Julius Peppers and hungry to inject more effective pass rushing into their arsenal. Burns brings a treasure chest youth, speed (4.53 40-time), length and athleticism to the defensive perimeter.

"We get a guy who we think has elite athletic ability, he's got length, he's got speed," Marty Hurney said.

Ron Rivera also spoke enthusiastically about how they plan to integrate Burns' skill-set into the mix.

The 11 defensive linemen chosen in the first round tied the 2011 mark for the most defensive linemen selected in the first round in the common draft era.