Report: Trade talks surrounding Orlando Brown Jr. “heating up”

With only a week remaining until the 2021 NFL Draft, trade talks surrounding Ravens offensive tackle Orlando Brown Jr. have begun to heat up, according to Josina Anderson.

With the reports of former Steelers left tackle Alejandro Villanueva visiting with Baltimore, speculation regarding Brown began to arise yet again. Brown, drafted in the third round of the 2018 draft with the 83rd pick out of Oklahoma, spent the majority of his first three seasons playing at right tackle for the Ravens, earning two Pro Bowls. When All-Pro LT Ronnie Stanley suffered a season-ending ankle injury against Pittsburgh in Week 8, Brown moved over to replace him.

Brown earned a trip to the Pro Bowl with his play at left tackle, proving that he has what it takes to protect a quarterback’s blindside in the NFL. Brown spent his collegiate career playing left tackle for the Sooners. A historically poor combine showing contributed to Brown falling all the way to the third round, despite his strong college tape. Brown has since declared his want to only play left tackle going forward, which obviously poses a dilemma for Baltimore given the fact that they already have an All-Pro at the position with a fat new contract. It is currently unclear if Brown will refuse to play at right tackle for the 2021 season if he is not traded.

Brown earned a PFF grade of 76.5 in 2020, allowing three sacks for the season. While an extremely solid player, and one with a special place in the hearts of fans, it would be wise for the Ravens to trade Brown if the value presents itself. Otherwise, Baltimore will likely earn a third-round compensatory pick for Brown when he inevitably leaves in free agency.