Jaron Brown’s Last Stand in 2017
By Jeremy Meek
The 2017 season might be the Jaron Brown’s last for the Arizona Cardinals
The Arizona Cardinals are in the process of an overhaul of their wide receiver corps. Larry Fitzgerald is unlikely to play more than another few years, and Michael Floyd, once thought to be the eventual replacement for Fitzgerald, was released last season. Another receiver whose roster spot may not be safe is Jaron Brown.
Brown was signed as an undrafted free agent in 2013. He didn’t have impressive numbers in college, but at 6’2″ and 205 lbs, he had NFL size. Then he posted a 4.40 in the 40 yard dash at the combine. The Cardinals signed him after the draft, where he wasn’t selected.
The Cardinals have mostly used Brown as a fourth receiver in his four years in the NFL. He has started just four games, and has recorded just 55 receptions for 700 yards and 5 touchdowns as a professional.
More from Raising Zona
- 5 big mistakes that doomed the Arizona Cardinals in 2022
- Brian Flores may have known Arizona Cardinals weren’t sincere
- 5 difficult decisions Arizona Cardinals must make this offseason
- Arizona Cardinals: Reid believes Mike Kafka would benefit Kyler Murray
- Former QB cites Murray as reason Payton spurned Arizona Cardinals
Obviously, Brown has the size and athleticism teams look for, but thus far, he’s been unable to make any sort of real impact. His best year was in 2014, when he had 22 catches and 2 scores. Last year, he played in just seven games due to torn ACL.
Despite the injury, Brown was signed to a one year contract extension late last season. With Floyd gone, and question marks elsewhere at receiver, Brown will get a shot to finally establish himself. John Brown was limited in 2016 after being diagnosed with the sickle cell trait. JJ Nelson’s size prevents him from being more than a situational player. Chad Williams was drafted in round three, and has great potential, but is still a rookie.
Jaron Brown needs to succeed in 2017. His contract ends, and the Cardinals might be ready to move on if he doesn’t take the next step. He’s talented, but the team can’t wait forever. If he has another season of minimal production, there’s a good chance his next contract will be somewhere else.