Chiefs’ Brown to play on franchise tag

The Chiefs and Pro Bowl left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. failed to reach a long-term deal before Friday’s deadline, leaving the blindside protector for quarterback Patrick Mahomes playing on the franchise tag this season. The Chiefs had been optimistic that they could sign Brown, whom they acquired from the Ravens for a package of draft picks prior to last season, to a long-term contract. But negotiations were slowed initially as Brown settled on representation, and then it became increasingly clear as time ran out that the sides remained far apart. The Chiefs made a final pitch of six years and nearly $140 million, with $30.25 million guaranteed at signing, which would have made Brown one of the league’s highest-paid left tackles. The question facing the Chiefs now is whether Brown will report to training camp next week. The Chiefs placed the franchise tag on the 26-year-old tackle, which means he would play next season for $16.7 million whenever he decides to sign the contract tender. But until that happens, Brown can skip training camp without risking any sort of fine.