Former Ohio State enigma lands $19 million free-agent deal after NFL role change
One former Ohio State Buckeye might not have known where he'd end up during the 2025 NFL free agency period after bouncing around, but the Arizona Cardinals had no interest in losing Baron Browning. Once an off-ball linebacker with the Buckeyes, Browning has become a pass-rushing specialist since entering the NFL. According to NFL Network's […]
One former Ohio State Buckeye might not have known where he'd end up during the 2025 NFL free agency period after bouncing around, but the Arizona Cardinals had no interest in losing Baron Browning. Once an off-ball linebacker with the Buckeyes, Browning has become a pass-rushing specialist since entering the NFL.
According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, the Cardinals rewarded Browning with a two-year deal worth up to $19 million. Browning produced 14 tackles and two sacks in eight games after he was acquired at the trade deadline.
Arizona originally gave up a 2025 sixth-round pick for Browning. The former Bronco was selected in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft and racked up 9.5 sacks before the trade. A foot injury in Week 2 limited his ability to break back into the rotation.
Now a rotational pass-rusher, Arizona is banking on his athleticism to be a difference-maker.
Ohio State used Browning as a strong-side linebacker from 2017 through 2020. He had 110 tackles and seven sacks but was never an overly impactful presence. His athleticism was solid, but his consistency wasn't there.
Hopefully, the former Buckeye will find this opportunity more fruitful.