As we continue our breakdown of the 2021 Ohio State NFL Draft class, the next name on the list is linebacker Baron Browning. I currently have Browning right around the top 100 players in this draft. Depending on how teams view Browning as either a 3-4 Will or a 4-3 inside linebacker, he could move up or down a few slots. He can play all of the linebacker positions but looks the best inside.
Browning does offer a little in terms of pass rush, but his talents would not work well if he was asked to be an edge rusher or outside linebacker at the next level full-time. He has the ability to be a sideline to sideline player but will need to work on his processing a little bit to fully unlock his abilities. Browning is a high upside linebacker at the next level for a team looking for help shooting gaps.
The pros of Baron Browning…
Baron Browning positive for the NFL…
#OhioState LB Baron Browning measured in at the #SeniorBowl at 6-3, 241 lbs with an 81 inch wingspan, 33 inch arms.
That height is above the 80th percentile and arm length/wingspan are both above the 93rd percentile for off-ball LBs in the NFL.
— Trevor Sikkema (@TampaBayTre) January 26, 2021
Browning is a solidly built linebacker who has good flexibility and agility. In transitions, he moves really well and can adjust quickly. His greatest asset is his ability to shoot a gap and get his arms around a tackler. He is good at shedding blocks and filling a gap with power. If Browning can get a free shot at a gap he finds the ball carrier quickly and can make splash plays. Run support is a hallmark for Browning.
In coverage, Browning has the athleticism to match up with tight ends well and won’t get pushed around off the line or in contested catches. He can also rush the passer on a blitz and finds his way around blockers. He had several huge plays for loss or fumbles, and has a high upside.
Cons for Baron Browning…
The cons for drafting Baron Browning…
My five @seniorbowl players to watch as potential #Cowboys targets:
Elijah Molden (Slot Corner – Washington)
Carlos Basham Jr. (Edge – Wake Forrest)
Levi Onwuzurike (IDL – Washington)
Baron Browning (LB – Ohio State)
Richie Grant (S – UCF)— Kyle Youmans (@Kyle_Youmans) January 25, 2021
Browning has some issues he needs to work through for the next level. While in college he did well to adjust and call plays for the Buckeyes he is a little raw here and will need time to adjust to the NFL. I think Browning is a little scheme-specific and should be used where he can attack downhill and not be asked to cover often. He should be able to get there but will need work early in his career.
Most of the knocks on Browning has to do with his processing. Sometimes Browning is a little slow to process a quick play and can be a step slow in reacting. His sideline-to-sideline play will develop if he can see and react a little faster, but if the play takes a second to develop Browning will thrive. I would want him blitzing or coming downhill in run support early in his career rather than recognizing a play and staying in coverage.
Browning is late third to the middle of the fourth round pick right now. A good showing at the Senior Bowl can help, but the processing will be an issue for some teams. He has a high upside and can be a three-down linebacker sooner than later.
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