Zach Brown rumors: 3 best fits

One of the better inside linebackers in the NFL, Zach Brown is going to get paid handsomely after five excellent seasons.

After being drafted by the Tennessee Titans in 2012, Zach Brown spent four seasons in the music City before moving onto the Buffalo Bills, where the former North Carolina star found his form. However, Brown only lasted one year in Buffalo despite 149 tackles and four sacks, playing in 2017 with the Washington Redskins.

Brown, 28, only played in 13 games last season but amassed 127 tackles with 2.5 sacks. In the prime of his career, Brown should be paid well on a long-term deal, perhaps going four or five seasons. The inside linebacker market has decreased in recent years, but Brown’s productivity warrants a large contract.

Best fits

1. New York Jets

New York is trying to build around a young defense that features Leonard Williams and Jamal Adams, and Brown would give the Jets another star at a different level. Brown has showcased the ability to both play in space and plug the run, all while giving some ability to rush the passer from the inside.

2. Washington Redskins

Washington should be doing all it can to retain him. The Redskins are trying to remake the team on the fly, and Brown should be part of the solution moving forward. The front office should prioritize Brown over Trent Murphy and Junior Galette, considering age and production.

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3. Green Bay Packers

The Packers have not been aggressive in free agency for quite some time, held down by Ted Thompson. Now, under Brian Gutekunst, Green Bay should be upgrading the defense. The Packers have to fill in with talent around an aging Clay Matthews, and Brown would give them a nice pillar in the middle alongside Nick Perry and behind Mike Daniels.