Before Orlando Brown Jr. was traded to the Kansas City Chiefs on Friday, the Washington Football Team considered trading for the Pro Bowl offensive tackle. According to John Keim of ESPN, Washington had discussions for Brown. However, Washington decided the price of acquiring Brown would be too much.
Brown, a third-round pick out of Oklahoma in 2018, played right tackle his first two seasons with the Baltimore Ravens. He was moved to left tackle following the season-ending injury to Ronnie Stanley in 2020.
Brown wants to play left tackle, but the return of Stanley in 2021 would force Brown back to the right side in Baltimore. Thus, he seemingly pushed to be traded and now with the Chiefs he will get his wish.
The interest in Brown highlighted Washington’s desire to find a long-term answer at left tackle. For the past two seasons, Washington has placed a bandage over the hole left by Trent Williams, who is now with the San Francisco 49ers.
Acquiring Brown would have been a ideal replacement for Williams. Yet, the price just was too steep for Ron Rivera and Co. The Chiefs sent the Ravens draft picks this year in the first round, third and fourth, as well as a fifth-round pick in 2022.
Additionally, Brown will play out the final year of his rookie deal next season. That will put him in line for a hefty contract extension, which also played a factor in Washington passing up the chance.
Now, Washington will likely turn its attention to the draft to find their left tackle. Four offensive tackles are expected to go in the first round. Washington currently possesses the 19th overall pick in next week’s draft. The likes of Christian Darrisaw and Rashawn Slater have been linked to Washington in various mock drafts.
