Longtime NFL veteran tackle Orlando Brown will not hit the open market, as Kansas City is using the franchise tag on the young star. Brown, a three-time Pro Bowl selection, spent the 2021 season with the Kansas City Chiefs but has also played for the Baltimore Ravens.
Kansas City Chiefs are franchise tagging OT Orlando Brown, per league sources. Brown becomes the first free-agent-to-be this off-season known to be getting the franchise tag.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 7, 2022
Orlando Brown Receives Franchise Tag From Kansas City Chiefs
Following Kansas City’s 31-9 loss in Super Bowl 55, Brett Veach and the front office did everything in their power to build the best offensive line possible. Patrick Mahomes spent the entire game running for his life, as Kansas City’s backups simply weren’t good enough to deal with the ferocious front of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
After adding a few free-agent pieces along the offensive line, Kansas City secured the blind side by trading a first-, third-, fourth-, and fifth-round pick for Orlando Brown, a second-round pick, and a 2022 sixth-round pick. Brown, who had spent most of his career at right tackle, wanted the opportunity to play on the blind side, and Kansas City had a gaping need at left tackle.
The move paid off, as Brown continued to play like one of the best tackles in the league. Starting and appearing in 16 games, Brown finished the year with a 75.3 PFF grade while earning his fourth consecutive Pro Bowl nomination. He also finished with 13 Approximate Value points, per Pro Football Reference.
Orlando Brown originally entered the NFL as a third-round pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. Selected by the Baltimore Ravens, the Oklahoma product immediately outplayed his draft position. As a rookie, Brown appeared in all 16 games and quickly earned the starting job. His play, along with the arrival of Lamar Jackson, played a huge role in Baltimore’s return to the postseason.
Brown’s play only improved with experience, as he established himself as one of the best tackles in the league in 2019. Starting on arguably the best offensive line in football, Brown’s stellar protection helped elevate Lamar Jackson to the second unanimous MVP in NFL history.
Main photo:
Embed from Getty Images
