Brian Burns Reveals Origin of NY Giants OLB Superhero Nickname
The New York Giants are navigating a challenging season in 2025, with coaching changes failing to yield positive results. Despite the ongoing struggles, outside linebacker Brian Burns has emerged as a beacon of hope for the team, fully embracing his Spider-Man superhero nickname.
Origin of the Spider-Man Nickname
The nickname “Spider-Man” was inspired by an incident during Burns’ college days at Florida State. During an episode of The Players Lounge podcast with Super Bowl champion Victor Cruz, Burns shared the story behind the moniker. He recalled seeing a viral clip of a person in a Spider-Man costume striking a pose. This sparked a playful moment in practice where he imitated the pose.
Following this fun interaction, Burns recorded two sacks in a game against Wake Forest. The highlight was his final sack, where he once again struck the Spider-Man pose, leading to a memorable photo that went viral. This moment solidified his nickname and connection to the superhero.
Burns’ Performance This Season
Brian Burns is having an outstanding season, currently tied for the NFL lead in sacks with Myles Garrett, each having 11 sacks. His statistics also include:
- 31 solo tackles
- 15 tackles for loss
- 2 forced fumbles
- 6 pass breakups
- 32 total pressures
Despite the Giants ranking 27th in the league, allowing 27.3 points per game, Burns remains a top contender for All-Pro and Defensive Player of the Year accolades. His disruptive presence in the trenches has made him a crucial player for New York.
Impact on Team Morale
As the Giants face criticism, particularly regarding the management led by general manager Joe Schoen, Burns’ performance offers a silver lining. His ability to consistently deliver strong results on the field contrasts with the team’s struggles. Burns’ contributions have been vital, as he accounts for a significant portion of New York’s sacks.
Even amid adversity, Burns is embodying the spirit of his favorite superhero. He showcases determination and resilience, reminding fans of the need for a “friendly neighborhood Spider-Man” in tough times. As the season progresses, Giants fans are hopeful that Burns can maintain his exceptional play and infectious enthusiasm.
