Should Jacksonville Jaguars trade for Ravens OT Orlando Brown?

The Jacksonville Jaguars may be in the market for an offensive tackle this offseason and although they could sign one in free agency or draft one, there’s another one that may be available via trade.

Baltimore Ravens right tackle Orlando Brown posted on social media not long ago that he wants to switch to the left side. That may not be possible as the Ravens already have a left tackle in Ronnie Stanley, whom they signed to a five-year $98.75 million contract in 2020.

Brown played 700 snaps at left tackle last season because Stanley suffered an ankle injury. However, it’s unlikely the Oklahoma product will stay there once Stanley is healthy and Michael David Smith of Pro Football Talk believes that this could prompt Brown to ask for a trade. If that’s the outcome, should the Jaguars pursue him?

Does it make sense for the Jacksonville Jaguars to pursue Orlando Brown?

A third-round pick in 2018, Brown has started 42 games in his three-year career, and nine of those have been at left tackle. Although he says the switch is not about the money, left tackles paid significantly better than right tackles, so he could indirectly be asking for a raise.

Last season, Brown earned a 77.7 Pro Football Focus grade and gave up three sacks and one hit. He showed he can line up on both sides of the offensive line and the Ravens may make him available via trade if he insists on playing left tackle and doesn’t want to wait one more year to become a free agent.

Baltimore would likely ask for a first or second round in exchange for the left tackle. The Jaguars have an extra first-round pick, and the first pick in the second round, the 33rd overall selection, so they could easily trade for the offensive tackle.

Keep in mind that besides the selection, Jacksonville would also have to give the Notre Dame product a new contract. Nevertheless, allocating a draft pick and cap space to the position may be excessive.

The Jaguars should definitely look for ways to upgrade their left tackle position, as Cam Robinson is scheduled to become a free agent. However, this year’s left tackle class will be deep and the ‘Jags’ could add a good one late in the first round or early in the second. On the other hand, if they want to bring in an established veteran, they can sign one in the open market without the need to part ways with a draft pick.

As good as Brown is, the Jaguars should pass up the chance to trade for him if he becomes available. They have the resources to pull a trade, but they may be better off using them to address other roster needs.