Report: Cardinals WR Marquise Brown 'in line' for big payday

Howe points to recent big wide receiver deals for Tyreek Hill, Davante Adams and A.J. Brown as evidence of a "booming" player's market.

"That means Marquise Brown is in line to be paid like one of the best receivers in the NFL," Howe wrote. "It’s a projection, and it’s possible the Cardinals made the right one. Brown, who turns 25 next month, is on an upward trajectory and should have a greater statistical output in Arizona, particularly once DeAndre Hopkins returns to monopolize the defense’s attention. ... Brown will have the leverage, though. And don’t forget, (Kyler) Murray is also putting pressure on the Cardinals to get a deal done, and the franchise quarterback certainly has his leverage. This is an incredibly important time for the Cardinals’ front office."

Brown was chosen by the Ravens as the 25th overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft and is coming off of his most productive season. The 24-year-old played in 16 games for the second straight year and ended 2021 second on the team only to All-Pro tight end Mark Andrews in targets (146), receptions (91), receiving yards (1,008) and receiving touchdowns (six).

The younger cousin of wideout Antonio Brown, Marquise's targets, receptions and receiving yards totals were all career highs and he was on the field for 924 offensive snaps (80%), which were also the most of his young NFL journey. Through the first 46 regular-season games of his career, Brown has compiled 195 receptions for 2,361 yards and 21 touchdowns on 317 targets.