Buying into Nick Saban’s process is easier said than done for most players, but it becomes a thing of beauty when the wild ones finally submit. He’s never had a problem with tackling, speed, coverage or ball skills; nevertheless, it was Tony Brown’s lack of maturity during the beginning of his collegiate career that limited him.
After being in Saban’s doghouse for a while, the once five-star prospect is now ready to show fans that he can put it all together on the field.
Crimson Spotlight: Tony Brown
Position: Cornerback
Number: #2
Classification: Senior
Height: 6-0
Weight: 198 pounds
2016 stats: 32 TKLs, 2.5 TFLs, 2 INTs
Summary
As good as Alabama’s secondary looks for this season; a focused Tony Brown could be the piece that solidifies the group. Upon returning from four-game NCAA suspension in 2016, the native Texan emerged with 32 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss and two interceptions. One of his two takeaways came versus the Florida Gators in the Southeastern Conference Championship Game, aiding the Crimson Tide to a 54-16 win over the Gators.
Before enrolling in the 2014 signing class, Brown was a dynamo in football and track at Ozen High School at Beaumont, Texas. While he won the 2013 Texas Class 4A state championship in the 110-meter hurdles (13.40 seconds), the eight-ranked prospect on ESPN’s recruiting database turned in 191 tackles, 31 pass breakups and four interceptions as a freshman and sophomore.
He showed signs of promise in his first year at Alabama, recording 10 tackles and a pass breakup in 2014 but off-field issues forced him to the sideline for much of 2015 and last season.
Brown has been labeled ‘the emotional leader’ of the secondary according to Minkah Fitzpatrick at SEC media days, but there are times when his emotions get the better of him. To pair with earning his degree, Brown has been spotted with the first team defense at star (nickel and dime).
His 40-time of 4.38 seconds (best on team) allows him to be able to roam the secondary, break on passes, and even catch up to the ball – should he get burned on a throw. Regardless of having to fight to get to this point, a productive outing from Brown lands him a solid NFL Draft stock.
2017 projected stats
60 TKLs
5 TFLs
6 PBUs
3 INTs
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDALMag.
