The Cincinnati Bengals made waves in the offseason, signing star offensive tackle Orlando Brown Jr. to a lucrative $64 million contract. Known for his dominance on the offensive line, Brown’s arrival was meant to solidify the Bengals’ protection for quarterback Joe Burrow and bolster the team’s playoff aspirations. But as the Bengals sit at 6-8 with only three games remaining, questions loom about whether Brown’s impact can propel them to postseason redemption.
A legacy of grit and purpose
Orlando Brown Jr.’s journey to NFL stardom has been fueled by resilience and an unshakable sense of purpose. The son of former NFL tackle Orlando Brown Sr., who tragically passed away in 2011 due to diabetic ketoacidosis, Brown carries his father’s legacy with pride. His family’s connection to diabetes advocacy is deeply personal, with Brown’s younger brother living with Type 1 diabetes. As an ambassador for Breakthrough T1D, he uses his platform to raise awareness and support for others facing the condition.
This dual focus on family and football defines Brown’s identity, inspiring his teammates and fans alike. “I play for something bigger than myself,” Brown said in a recent interview, reflecting on the motivation that drives his relentless work ethic.
Breaking down the $64 million deal
Brown’s contract with the Bengals is a testament to his value as one of the league’s top offensive linemen. The four-year, $64 million deal includes a staggering $31.1 million signing bonus, fully guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $16.02 million. In 2024, he is set to earn $4.5 million in base salary, with additional bonuses for roster status ($3 million) and workouts ($375,000). His cap hit of $16.4 million makes him the 17th-highest-paid offensive tackle in the NFL.
While the numbers underscore Cincinnati’s confidence in Brown, the move also marked a significant shift in his career. Leaving the Kansas City Chiefs, where he was a key part of two Pro Bowl seasons and a Super Bowl-winning roster, was a risk. Yet, Brown embraced the challenge of anchoring Cincinnati’s offensive line, believing in the potential of quarterback Joe Burrow and the team’s vision for the future.
Can Brown deliver under pressure?
So far, Brown has lived up to expectations as a stalwart on the Bengals’ O-line. Ranked 12th in pass protection by Pro Football Focus, he has allowed a pressure rate of just 3.5%, leading all tackles in the league. However, injuries have tested his durability, with a recent fibula issue sidelining him in critical moments.
With the Bengals’ playoff hopes hanging by a thread, Brown’s return to the field could be pivotal. His ability to protect Burrow’s blind side and provide stability up front will be crucial if Cincinnati is to mount a late-season push. The team’s offensive struggles have underscored the importance of Brown’s presence, and his leadership has become a rallying point for the Bengals’ locker room.
A high-stakes season finale
For Brown and the Bengals, the stakes couldn’t be higher. While the team’s record may not reflect their lofty expectations, the potential for a playoff turnaround remains alive. Whether Brown can anchor that comeback and justify his $64 million investment will shape both his legacy and Cincinnati’s future.