Bengals Offensive Lineman Orlando Brown Jr. Is Healthy for the Game Against the Broncos
The Cincinnati Bengals have experienced a rollercoaster of a season, from early struggles to impressive victories. As they continue their playoff push, every game becomes more significant, and every player’s health is crucial. The Bengals have just received a boost ahead of their upcoming game against the Denver Broncos, with offensive lineman Orlando Brown Jr. officially cleared and healthy. After a series of injuries that have hampered the team’s progress at key points during the season, this announcement is a welcome sight for both fans and the coaching staff.
Orlando Brown Jr., who was signed in the offseason to be the anchor of Cincinnati’s revamped offensive line, had been battling through various health issues early in the season. Despite the challenges, he has continued to play a pivotal role in protecting franchise quarterback Joe Burrow, and with his full recovery, the Bengals’ offensive line now appears ready to take on one of the toughest defensive units in the NFL: the Denver Broncos.
The Arrival of Orlando Brown Jr. and the Bengals’ Offensive Line Transformation
When the Bengals signed Orlando Brown Jr. to a four-year, $64 million deal in free agency, the hope was that the offensive line would finally receive the upgrade it desperately needed. Brown, a two-time Pro Bowler and Super Bowl champion with the Kansas City Chiefs, was brought in to provide stability and protection for Burrow, who has often been under siege due to an inconsistent offensive line.
The Bengals had made significant strides in the past few seasons but often found themselves falling short due to a lack of consistency in their offensive line play. In particular, Burrow had taken an uncomfortably high number of sacks, including an NFL-record 70 during the 2022 season. The Bengals had addressed this by signing Brown and also making other key moves to improve the front five, including bringing in center Ted Karras and guard Alex Cappa. Together, these changes were expected to help the Bengals balance their offense, giving Burrow the time he needs to deliver the ball to his talented receiving corps, including Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Tyler Boyd.
While Brown’s arrival created optimism, the path hasn’t been smooth. Early in the season, he battled injuries that kept him from being at full strength, forcing the offensive line to adjust without him at his best. His presence, however, was still felt, and he played through pain to make sure Burrow had some protection. The Bengals’ offensive line faced challenges, but as the season progressed and the team found its rhythm, the offensive line began to gel and improve.
Now, with Brown finally healthy for the Bengals’ upcoming game against the Broncos, the team’s offensive line could be operating at full strength for the first time all season. This provides an opportunity for the Bengals to truly show their offensive capabilities and take their game to the next level.
The Impact of Brown’s Health on Joe Burrow and the Passing Game
Arguably the most important beneficiary of Orlando Brown Jr.’s health is Joe Burrow. Burrow has shown over the years that he is one of the most talented quarterbacks in the NFL. He has the ability to make all the throws, from quick slants to deep bombs, and his poise in the pocket is exceptional. However, all of this talent is rendered ineffective when Burrow is under constant pressure.
Throughout his career, Burrow has been a victim of poor offensive line play, particularly during his first two seasons. In 2021, despite leading the Bengals to a Super Bowl appearance, Burrow was sacked 51 times, and in 2022, the number jumped to 70. Burrow’s quick release and ability to make plays under pressure helped mitigate the lack of pass protection, but it wasn’t sustainable. The Bengals knew that to truly contend for a championship, they needed to protect their young quarterback, and Brown was brought in to do just that.
With Brown fully healthy and ready to protect Burrow’s blindside, the Bengals’ offensive line should have a more formidable presence in the pocket. This is critical against the Broncos, who boast one of the most aggressive and talented defenses in the league. Denver’s defensive front, led by linebacker Patrick Surtain II and a physical defensive line, is known for getting after the quarterback and disrupting passing plays. For Burrow to excel, he needs solid protection up front. The return of Brown means Burrow will have more time to survey the field, allowing him to hit his playmakers down the field with greater consistency.
The addition of Brown’s presence on the left side of the offensive line is also significant for the Bengals’ passing game because it ensures that Burrow won’t be forced to scramble or move off his spot. Burrow has become known for his ability to make off-platform throws and keep plays alive, but the more he can stay in the pocket and make clean throws, the more dangerous he becomes. With Brown keeping pass rushers at bay, Burrow can maintain his usual calm and poise in critical situations, leading to more explosive plays.
Improved Run Blocking: Brown’s Role in the Ground Game
While much of the focus surrounding Orlando Brown Jr. has been on his ability to protect Joe Burrow, his impact on the Bengals’ running game should not be underestimated. Brown’s 6’8″, 345-pound frame makes him an imposing force, and when he’s at full strength, he is able to dominate in the trenches, both in pass protection and in the run game.
Cincinnati has been relatively balanced in their offensive approach this season, but they have struggled at times to establish the run. Running back Joe Mixon, a key player in the Bengals’ offense, has shown flashes of brilliance, but consistency has been a challenge due to the offensive line’s inability to open up running lanes on a regular basis.
Now, with Brown healthy, the Bengals should be able to generate more push at the line of scrimmage and create better opportunities for Mixon and the other backs. Brown’s ability to both protect the quarterback and pave the way for the running backs gives the Bengals a more complete offense, capable of attacking defenses both through the air and on the ground. Against a tough Broncos defense, a balanced offensive attack will be critical to moving the ball effectively.
The ability to run the ball successfully also gives the Bengals more flexibility in their play calling, as it sets up play-action opportunities that can keep the Broncos’ defense on its toes. Brown’s ability to block on the move and open up lanes for Mixon will be key in controlling the tempo of the game.
The Broncos’ Defense: A Tough Challenge for the Bengals’ O-Line
While the Bengals’ offensive line has made considerable strides, the upcoming matchup against the Denver Broncos presents one of their toughest tests yet. The Broncos have one of the NFL’s most ferocious defenses, anchored by talented players like cornerback Patrick Surtain II, linebacker Alex Singleton, and defensive linemen like Dre’Mont Jones. Denver’s defense has consistently ranked among the league’s best in terms of yards allowed and points per game, and they have shown they can shut down both the run and the pass with their aggressive schemes.
For Orlando Brown Jr., the task will be to contain Denver’s edge rushers, particularly those who can disrupt Burrow’s rhythm. Brown’s size, experience, and skill set will be put to the test in this game. If the Bengals are to have success offensively, their offensive line will need to hold its own against the Broncos’ stout defensive front. This is where Brown’s leadership and playmaking ability become crucial. He must not only block effectively but also help keep the line cohesive, as defensive linemen and linebackers will be looking to exploit any weakness.
The Importance of Brown’s Health for the Bengals’ Playoff Push
The Bengals are in the thick of the AFC playoff race, and every game is of utmost importance. With the Denver Broncos being a strong team in their own right, the Bengals cannot afford to drop this game, especially when they are competing for a playoff spot. The return of Orlando Brown Jr. to full health is critical, as it strengthens the team’s chances of competing against one of the toughest defenses in the NFL.
A win against the Broncos would not only solidify the Bengals’ playoff hopes but also signal that they are a team to be reckoned with in the postseason. With Brown protecting Burrow’s blindside, Mixon running with authority, and a defense that has proven itself capable of shutting down opponents, the Bengals have the tools they need to make a deep run.
In conclusion, Orlando Brown Jr.’s return to health for the Bengals’ game against the Broncos could be a turning point in their season. With the stakes high and the competition fierce, Brown’s impact on both the passing and running game will be vital to Cincinnati’s success. As the Bengals look to keep their playoff hopes alive, all eyes will be on Brown to see if he can deliver the kind of performance that his team so desperately needs.
