Troy Brown, born in Barnwell, South Carolina, in July 1971, attended Blackville-Hilda High School before continuing his football career at Marshall University. At Marshall, he earned First Team All-America honors during his senior year, showcasing his versatility as a wide receiver, punter, and defensive back. Brown was drafted in the eighth round of the 1993 NFL Draft by the New England Patriots, where he would spend his entire 15-season career (1993-2007). Known for his consistency and leadership, he retired as the Patriots’ all-time leading receiver with 557 career receptions and as the team’s all-time leading punt returner with 252 returns.

Throughout his time with the Patriots, Brown made significant contributions to the team, helping them secure three Super Bowl championships. He went to the Pro Bowl in 2001 and served as a team captain for five seasons. Brown also expanded his role in 2004 by playing defensive back, finishing second on the team with three interceptions. By the time he retired, Brown ranked second in franchise history with 6,366 career receiving yards and tied for the most punt returns for touchdowns with three. His impact on the Patriots was undeniable, and he was inducted into the New England Patriots Hall of Fame in 2012.

After retiring from playing, Brown returned to the Patriots in 2016 through the Bill Walsh Minority Coaching Fellowship and eventually joined the coaching staff in 2020 as the running backs and kick returner coach. He stayed in this role for three seasons before transitioning to a skill development position under head coach Bill Belichick. He is currently a coach for the New York Giants. Brown’s post-playing career has been as impactful as his playing days, and he was inducted into the Marshall Athletic Hall of Fame in 2002 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 2010. His legacy in both college and professional football remains strong, cementing him as one of the Patriots’ all-time greats.

Photo courtesy of the New England Patriots/Silverman.