The New England Patriots badly need an infusion of offensive tackle talent, and the headliner of this year’s free agent class now is set to become available.
The Kansas City Chiefs opted not to use the franchise tag on left tackle Orlando Brown Jr., according to multiple reports Monday. If Brown and the Chiefs cannot reach an agreement on a long-term contract by next Wednesday, the 26-year-old would become a free agent and be free to sign with any team.
That’s big news for tackle-needy teams like the Patriots.
Brown is one of the NFL’s premier left tackles, earning Pro Bowl selections in each of the last four seasons.