CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Carolina Panthers outside linebacker Brian Burns sat out his second consecutive practice Monday because of a contract dispute, raising questions about whether the two-time Pro Bowler will play in Sunday’s regular-season opener against the Atlanta Falcons. Burns did not practice last Thursday, with the team saying that was because of “personal reasons.” But after the Panthers returned to practice on Monday following a long weekend, Burns again sat out a walkthrough practice and coach Frank Reich indicated it was because of his contract situation. Burns is set to make $16 million this season in the final year of his rookie contract.
