Getty Image / Sean Haffey
The Cincinnati Bengals have become one of the best franchises in the NFL after decades of futility. Of course, that’s what happens when you get a franchise quarterback like Joe Burrow.
After going without a playoff win for 31 years, the Bengals broke through in a big way in 2021 when they won the AFC North and won three games en route to the Super Bowl, where they lost a heartbreaker to the Los Angeles Rams.
But, the big knock on that 2021 team was a putrid offensive line that allowed too much pressure on Burrow. But, the team went out and added studs up front like La’el Collins and Alex Cappa. Line play was better, but, it can always improve. And, they’ve made a huge signing in former Chiefs stud Orlando Brown Jr.
BREAKING: Orlando Brown Jr. finalizing four-year, $64M deal with Bengals. (via @TomPelissero) pic.twitter.com/876bwLxJZM
— NFL (@NFL) March 16, 2023
Brown also got a $31 million signing bonus, the biggest for an offensive tackle ever. He’s made four straight four Pro Bowls and has emerged as one of the league’s best tackles. The Chiefs made a huge move, acquiring Brown in a trade prior to the 2021 season to shore up Patrick Mahomes’ blindside, and now they will be without him.
Let’s look at some highlights of the 26-year-old out of Oklahoma.
Orlando Brown's performance in the Super Bowl showed off everything that he will bring to Cincy.
Elite strength in the run game, high end anchor and haymaker like punch in pass pro, and great processing to pass off stunts.
He's the best OT Cincinnati has had since Whit. pic.twitter.com/muu1CHYHJH
— Mike (@bengals_sans) March 16, 2023
Poles: “i want my OT to fit MY model of being agile and lean in order to move well with the EDGE”
*Orlando Brown Junior becomes available*
Bears fans: “He’s PERFECT! He matches our scheme and Poles’ model! Complete upgrade over Braxton!”
Orlando Brown Jr: pic.twitter.com/NTrP9sGCVq
— Bartholomew Willijax (@B_Willijax) March 7, 2023
It comes at a good time for the Bengals, who lost star safeties Jessie Bates and Vonn Bell in free agency earlier this week.