Orlando Brown Jr.’s Revitalized Performance Crucial for Bengals against Cleveland

Orlando Brown Jr., the Bengals’ left tackle, is preparing for a significant game against the Cleveland Browns, scheduled for Sunday at 1 p.m., to be broadcast on Cincinnati’s Local 12. The matchup holds personal significance for Brown, as his father once played for the Browns and his mother hails from Cleveland. His opponent in the trenches will be the formidable Myles Garrett, the NFL’s reigning Defensive Player of the Year.

The last encounter between the Bengals and Browns occurred at Paycor Stadium in the 2023 regular-season finale. In that game, Garrett and most of the Browns’ starters were absent, as they were preparing for the playoffs. Reflecting on his performance, Brown committed to an intensified offseason training regime.

Following the Bengals’ victory, Brown conducted a self-evaluation. Just nine days after the game, Brown, a four-time Pro Bowler, was back in the weight room with Bengals head strength and conditioning coach Joey Boese and his team. They devised a rigorous training plan aimed at enhancing his fundamental strength, which included ‘old school’ exercises such as deadlifts, barbell squats, and ‘farmer walks’ with 120-pound dumbbells.

“I had reached a point last season where I was the most flexible I’ve ever been in my ankles and hips, but I lacked the necessary strength in football positions,” Brown noted after a recent practice. “I needed to develop fundamental strength, so we returned to old-school methods.”

Bengals center Ted Karras and the team’s Pro Bowl edge defender, Sam Hubbard, have recognized Brown’s improvement. Boese praised Brown’s commitment, saying, “When you have a prime-time player who says he wants to improve, it speaks volumes. He exemplifies dedication by being consistently present and ready for every session.”

Brown’s offseason dedication is reflected in his current performance. According to Pro Football Focus, he ranks 12th in pass protection and overall among all tackles. The Bengals’ offense ranks tenth in scoring and shows improvements in passing and red-zone efficiency.

Wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase expressed respect for Browns cornerback Denzel Ward, acknowledging Ward as one of the most skillful defenders he faces. Chase has historically found it challenging to excel against Cleveland, averaging less than 10 yards per catch in past encounters.

In preparation for the upcoming match, other Bengals, including quarterback Joe Burrow and cornerback Cam Taylor-Britt, are managing minor injuries but are expected to play. For the Browns, Garrett and left tackle Jedrick Willis Jr. have returned to full practice, while Ward remains limited due to a hamstring issue.