He hasn't been as noticeable on ST with Dueling Banjo, The Ripper and Janis wreaking havoc. The good kind of havoc, not the penalty filled, self loathing havoc of the Slocum years.
They are down a big safety, which makes Burnett's return important. Joe Thomas can motor and cover people, so maybe Palmer sees more time with Thomas moving. But there aren't many more bodies at safety. Its good that Banjo is playing well in the backend.