2021 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Baron Browning





  • Baron Browning, 6-3/245

  • Linebacker

  • Ohio State


  • Baron Browning Scouting Report
    By Charlie Campbell

    Strengths:
  • Good skill set
  • Big
  • Fast
  • Athletic
  • Quick; covers a lot of ground
  • Runs well for a big linebacker
  • Flashes edge-rush ability
  • Explosive and fast off the edge
  • Could be a core special teams contributor




  • Weaknesses:
  • Lacks instincts
  • Struggled as an inside and outside off-the-ball linebacker
  • Needs to get faster reading his keys


  • Summary: Under Urban Meyer, Ohio State recruited a lot of highly touted players with excellent skill sets. Browning was one of those five-star recruits who Meyer brought to the Buckeyes. Over his four years at Ohio State, he rotated with other good players, and his best season was 2019, when he recorded 43 tackles and five sacks. As a senior, he had 29 tackles, one sack and two forced fumbles.

    Browning played inside and outside linebacker for the Buckeyes, but for the next level, teams think he would fit best as a 3-4 outside linebacker. They believe Browning does not have the instincts to play a traditional 4-3 middle or outside linebacker. He does, however, have serious speed off the edge with the strength and athleticism to rush. Thus, those sources think he will better off to transitioning to a 3-4. Browning has the skill set to be a starter, but will need some developmental time as he learns the position. For Browning to pan out, he is going to need good coaching and patience.

    Browning has the potential to go as high in the 2021 NFL Draft as a late second-round pick, but he could also end up being taken somewhere in Round 3 or early Round 4.



    Player Comparison: Marquis Haynes. Browning could be a rotational edge rusher like Haynes in the NFL. Haynes has turned into a solid designated pass rusher who contributes as a backup. With some development, Browning could be a similar player, but he may have the skill set and upside to grow into a bigger role.






    RELATED LINKS:


    2021 NFL Mock Draft: Charlie’s | Walt’s


    2021 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings


    2021 NFL Draft Scouting Reports








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