The Panthers finished in fourth place in the NFC South last season and winning the division hasn’t gotten any easier in the meantime.

It’s just been reported that the Patriots have agreed to trade the now un-retired tight end Rob Gronkowski and a seventh-round pick to the Buccaneers for a fourth-rounder.

#Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski has taken his physical already, sources say. So the trade should happen: Gronk and a 7th for a 4th rounder. — Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 21, 2020

The move gives Tom Brady another receiving weapon (as if he needed another) that he trusts and opens up the Bucs to trade O.J. Howard. It will make defending Bruce Arians’ offense that much more difficult for the Panthers and the rest of the division.

One of the guys who will likely be tasked with covering Gronk is recently-signed Carolina safety Juston Burris.

For his part, Burris says he loves competing against the best and is looking for war in the NFC South.

I love competing against the best! We looking for war in the NFC South — Juston Burris (@JdotBurris32) April 21, 2020

Burris is projected to be the team’s starting strong safety next to Tre Boston. He’s only started 11 games in his career, though and Gronkowski presents challenges even for the most established defensive backs in the league.

Coach Matt Rhule might have a lot of faith in Burris’ abilities. This development is another good reason why the team should consider drafting a prospect like Isaiah Simmons, though.