The 2024 season wasn't a year Baron Browning wants to replicate.
After getting traded days before the deadline from the Broncos, it took time for the outside linebacker to be added to the mix. Couple that with a nagging foot injury, Browning wasn't himself.
"I was just trying to push through it and make the most of the opportunities I had," he said. "I'm really excited about being here for a whole offseason and really being able to build a chemistry with my teammates and get comfortable in the system."
The pass rusher did not feel like he hit his stride until the back end of the season. On the "Cardinals Cover 2" podcast, Browning said he got into a rhythm when the team hosted the Seahawks in Week 14, five weeks after his arrival.
In eight games with the Cardinals, Browning had 14 tackles, four tackles for loss, and a pair of sacks. It was only his third season coming off the edge since spending his rookie season as an inside linebacker. Because he was traded during the season, the Cardinals made sure there wasn't a lot put on his plate.
"They kind of just let me go play so that's also a good thing because as a player, you want to be able to go play fast," Browning said.
While it was a small sample size of games, Browning showcased enough for the Cardinals to re-sign the outside linebacker. He agreed to terms on a two-year deal just a couple of days before reaching the open market.
"I believe in what we're trying to build here," Browning said. "I believe in the coaches. Most importantly, I believe in my teammates. I think all around it was the right fit for me."
With the contract signed, Browning's focus has shifted towards preparing for the 2025 season, a year expected to be much different than the year before. The injury is not impacting Browning anymore. A full offseason will be helpful as the 26-year-old takes on more responsibilities on the defense.
Also, he’ll reportedly have a new teammate in the room, to go along with a new coach, Matt Feeney.
"I'm looking forward to continue to build a relationship with him and get to know (Matt)," Browning said. "From our first meeting, I could tell he's a guy I'm going to like a lot. He has a great energy about him from the intro. First impressions are everything."
Browning left an impression on the staff even before his acquisition. Defensive coordinator Nick Rallis recalled speaking with Browning in 2021 when he was a draft prospect. Even over Zoom, his intelligence, versatility, and athleticism stood out. It's one of the reasons why the staff wanted to keep Browning in the building.
The feelings were mutual.
"If you got a girlfriend who is a 10, why play around?" Browning said.
