Arizona Cardinals Bolsters At The Deadline By Acquiring This Linebacker (Trade Grade)
Out of all the trades completed before the deadline, there was one trade that many forgot about. It happened a few days ago, involving LB Baron Browning. The Broncos traded Browning to the Arizona Cardinals. The details of that trade are down below.
Trade Details for Baron Browning
Arizona Cardinals Acquire: LB Baron Browning
Denver Broncos Acquire: 2025 6th Round Pick
Arizona Cardinals Side
I once called Arizona a mediocre football team, but man was I wrong. The Cardinals have a real chance to win the NFC West Division. In order to do that, they have to bolster the defense, especially at linebacker, and Baron Browning is a decent choice. He needed a change of scenery, as he was not working out in Denver. His biggest contribution will be bolstering the pass-rushing position. Last year he showed potential, with 4.5 sacks, but has not been the most consistent player. For a 6th-round pick, it is worth a chance to add a depth piece to Denver's defense.
Denver Broncos Side
This is an interesting transaction for the Broncos, and many analysts saw them as avoiders during the deadline. However, the organization chose to sell a piece, in Baron Browning. While he has shown flashes as a Bronco, he has not been impressive with the team, and the Broncos are already loaded with pass rushers and linebackers. It always seemed like Browning was the odd man out, and to get a draft pick for him is solid value. Especially as it was unlikely he was going to be brought back when his contract expired.
Grades For Baron Browning's Trade
Arizona Cardinals - A-
Denver Broncos - B+
Not a bad deal for both sides, but I give the higher grade to the Arizona Cardinals. They needed help at linebacker and get a solid depth piece. As for Denver, they get an extra draft pick for a player who was not working on defense, and losing Browning is not a tremendous loss, with how inconsistent he is. Overall this was a solid move, and hopefully, it works out for everyone involved.