Brandon Browner: Saints DB is just what the doctor ordered for Buccaneers big men
Physicality is a must in the National Football League. And Brandon Browner, who thrives off that style of play, should be a key factor for the New Orleans Saints defense when they host the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday.
Tampa Bay’s “twin towers” at the wideout position, Vincent Jackson and Mike Evans (both 6-foot-5), have assembled that receiving corps into one of the more difficult units to cover in the NFL.
Thanks to the Seattle Seahawks and their “Legion of Boom” secondary, big and physical defensive backs are in high demand, and guys like Richard Sherman and Brandon Browner paved the way. Fortunately, for the Saints, they were able to win over Browner (6-foot-4) to a free agent deal this offseason.
Once upon a time, Browner was part of that Super Bowl winning Seattle team two years ago, and again with the New England Patriots in 2014, so he brings that championship demeanor to the table as well.
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Brandon Browner isn’t going to be that quick, shifty defensive back who can keep up the with the league’s speedier receivers — many teams tend to drool over those type of players. No, he’s more of a guy who will size you up. Browner is meant to cover the Calvin Johnsons and the Jimmy Grahams of the NFL, not the Antonio Browns and the T.Y. Hiltons.
Brandon Browner is physically manufactured to take care of guys like Mike Evans and Vincent Jackson, who he’ll be facing this Sunday, and again on the road in December as part of an NFC South rivalry.
Browner’s presence will be crucial all season long. His physicality, which continues to get praise from coaches and players, along with his size, motor, championship experience, and veteran leadership are exactly what this Saints team was lacking a year ago on the defensive side of the ball.
He’ll likely be matching up with opposing teams’ big men all year. He’ll have the opportunity to prove he was the right choice for the New Orleans Saints this Sunday in an attempt to shut down Evans and Jackson with the help of rookie corners Delvin Breaux and Damian Swann, who both also play physical football. Minimizing the Bucs’ big men and keeping the penalties limited should help contain rookie quarterback Jameis Winston and company all game.