Evan Brown played well enough in 12 starts as an injury replacement for Frank Ragnow that the Detroit Lions did not want to risk losing him in free agency this week.
Brown and the Lions agreed to an extension on the eve of the free-agent negotiating period Sunday that will keep Brown in Detroit through at least the 2022 season.
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Brown played for three teams in his first three NFL seasons before finding a home with the Lions late in 2020. He played sparingly during stints with the New York Giants, Miami Dolphins and Cleveland Browns, but became a key cog on the Lions’ front last fall.
Lions head coach Dan Campbell speaks with Lions center Evan Brown (63) during the second half against the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Dec. 26, 2021, in Atlanta.
Brown allowed two sacks last season and ranked ninth among centers in ESPN’s pass block win rate.
The Lions have their top seven offensive linemen from last season under…