Chris Brown opts out to focus on draft preparation
AUSTIN, Texas — For the third time in two weeks, a Texas Longhorn has opted out of the rest of the season in order to declare his intention to focus on the 2021 NFL Draft.
Two weeks after offensive tackle Samuel Cosmi and safety Caden Sterns left the Longhorns, defensive back Chris Brown has made the same decision. After it was announced Thursday that Saturday’s game against Kansas has been cancelled, the bowl in which Texas plays will be the only game he misses.
“With love in my heart I want to share with everyone that I’ve decided to start the process of pursuing my dream by preparing for the NFL Draft,” Brown said. “After thorough conversation with both my family and coaches, it was a conclusion we came to that we know is in the best interest of my future.
“My experience at Texas has definitely been a rollercoaster, but it’s a ride that has meant everything to me because throughout this process I’ve grown. I’ve grown as a student, an athlete, a teammate, and most importantly, as a man. I’m extremely grateful for all of the teachable experiences I’ve had along the way and have learned from, and my time here is something I’m always going to remember and cherish.”
A team captain in 2020, Brown recorded 107 tackles (92 solo), six tackles for loss, a sack, an interception and three passes broken up during his time at UT.
This season, Brown ranks fifth on the team with 47 tackles and is tied for the lead among the Longhorns with seven pass breakups.
“I want to thank (head) Coach (Tom) Herman and (defensive coordinator) Coach (Chris) Ash for guiding me on this journey, and (former head) Coach (Charlie) Strong for giving me the opportunity to come here,” Brown said. “I appreciate them and all of the coaches and staff members for everything they’ve done for me, but most importantly the relationships we’ve built. I also want to thank my teammates — my brothers. The only way I can describe our bond is incredible.
“It’s been an incredible five years, and it’s something that’s going to last forever. It means so much to me that I’ve continued to grow as an athlete, while gaining their respect and becoming an entrusted leader of this team. We’ve developed relationships and unbreakable bonds that have only strengthened over time, and extend way beyond the game of football. Lastly, but most importantly, I want to thank my parents for being by my side and being the helping hand I’ve always depended on. I KNOW I’ve made them proud and can keep making them proud as I enter this next chapter. Longhorn Nation, I appreciate you all and please know that I’m going to be a Longhorn for life.”
