GLENDALE – The Arizona Cardinals spent big money this offseason to improve its defensive front seven, signing players like Calais Campbell, Josh Sweat and Dalvin Tomlinson. However, the player to make the biggest impact through the first two weeks was acquired at last year’s NFL trade deadline from the Denver Broncos in linebacker Baron Browning.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Browning was a different player in Arizona, recording five tackles for loss, two sacks and three QB hits in eight games. The 26-year-old was coming off the bench in those appearances but has earned the starting role this year and has took advantage of the opportunity.
Aug 9, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals linebacker Baron Browning (5) against the Kansas City Chiefs during a preseason NFL game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Browning has elevated Cardinals pass rush:
In his 2025 debut, Browning was the only Cardinals player to record a sack vs. the New Orleans Saints. Arizona struggled to create pressure, which Browning has been one of the few to consistently generate that thus far. His 10 pressures through the first two weeks is 8th amongst edges. The fifth-year pro has a PFF pass rush grade of 71.5, which is ranked 26 out of 147 of NFL edges.
Dec 22, 2024; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young (9) looks to pass as Arizona Cardinals linebacker Baron Browning (53) pressures in the first quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images
At 6’3, 255-pounds, he has been a matchup problem, generating the 4th-most QB hurries by any defensive players. And if Browning’s pass rush wasn’t enough, he has Arizona’s lone interception on the season. General manager Monti Ossenfort traded a sixth-round pick for Browning, which has become an absolute steal for the Cardinals.
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
