National Scouting Combine Presents Safety Neriyan Brown from Lafayette College

Name: Neriyan Brown
Position: Safety
School: Lafayette College
HT/WT: 6’1/205
X: @neriyanbrown
Instagram: @6_nfz

How’d you end up at your current school? What was the recruiting process like?
I ended up at my current school through a connection my high school coach had with the program. The recruiting process wasn’t easy—before my senior football season, I was recovering from a dislocated hip sustained during the previous baseball season in the spring. The injury created doubts among recruiters, and I had to work hard to prove I could come back stronger. It taught me resilience and how to push through adversity, qualities that still define me today.

What gives you an advantage over other athletes at your position?
My biggest advantage is my football IQ. I pride myself on being a student of the game, constantly studying film to understand offensive schemes and player tendencies. This allows me to anticipate plays before they develop. I’m also highly versatile, able to adapt to different situations, whether it’s defending against the pass or coming down to help in the run game. My physicality and quick reaction time give me an edge as well.

What does being a student of a game mean to you?
Being a student of the game means dedicating yourself to learning every aspect of football, both on and off the field. It’s about understanding all the small aspects of the game , like the opponent’s playbook, situational awareness, and even your own team’s strategies. It also means seeking feedback, learning from past mistakes, and applying those lessons to improve. For me, it’s a never-ending process of growth.

How does being a Safety reflect itself in your personal life?
As a Safety, my role is to be the last line of defense, which requires trust, accountability, and leadership. Off the field, I carry these traits into my personal life. I value being dependable for my family and friends and strive to lead by example in my community. Whether it’s staying composed under pressure or being proactive in tough situations, the mentality of a Safety translates directly to how I live my life.

How would you describe your work ethic?
I would describe my work ethic as relentless. I believe in putting in the extra hours, whether it’s training, studying film, or fine-tuning my technique. I’ve faced setbacks, like my hip injury, but I’ve always come back stronger because I’m willing to outwork anyone. Consistency, discipline, and a drive to be the best define my approach to football and life.

What do you consider to be one of the more important things you learned from the coaching staff?
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the value of preparation. My coaches always emphasized that success isn’t just about talent; it’s about the work you put in before you step on the field. Whether it’s in the weight room, watching film, or mental preparation. They also taught me the importance of being coachable and adaptable, which has shaped me into a better player and teammate.

What would you consider to be your biggest accomplishment in your sports career so far?
My biggest accomplishment so far has been winning our league last year. It was a culmination of hard work, teamwork, and determination. Being a key contributor to that success made it even more rewarding. It showed me the power of collective effort and leadership, and it’s something I’ll carry forward in my career.

8. How did you hear about the National Scouting Combine?
I first heard about the National Scouting Combine through Twitter. It caught my attention as a great opportunity to showcase my skills and measure myself against other talented athletes.

Why did you choose the National Scouting Combine?
I chose the National Scouting Combine because it provides a platform to compete at a high level and gain exposure. It’s a chance to demonstrate my athleticism, football IQ, and work ethic in front of scouts and evaluators. I wanted to test myself and show that I belong at the professional level.

What do you hope to show people at the combine?
At the combine, I hope to show people my speed, agility, and overall athletic ability. Beyond the physical aspects, I want to display my mental preparation, leadership qualities, and football IQ. I want evaluators to see that I’m not just an athlete—I’m a student of the game who is ready to contribute at the next level.

What was your Major? 
I majored in Anthropology and Sociology, with a minor in Economics.

If you could make a positive impact on all of society what would it be and why?
If I could make a positive impact, I would focus on mentoring and providing opportunities for young athletes, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds. Sports taught me discipline, teamwork, and perseverance, and I believe it can change lives. By creating accessible training programs and mentorship opportunities, I hope to inspire the next generation and help them achieve their goals.

What is something unique about you that people would find interesting?
Something unique about me is my academic background in Anthropology and Sociology, paired with a minor in Economics. This combination has given me a unique perspective on understanding people, cultures, and teamwork dynamics, which I bring to the field. It’s rare to blend those insights with athletic performance, but it’s helped me connect with teammates and adapt to different situations both on and off the field.

If you had the opportunity to play another sport professionally, what sport would you choose?
If I had the opportunity, I would choose baseball. It’s the sport I grew up playing and continued with until college. The strategy, precision, and mental aspect of baseball have always appealed to me, and it holds a special place in my heart.

Are you involved in mentoring, a charity or do you “give back” or “pay it forward” in your community?
Yes, I’m actively involved in mentoring younger athletes. I train and guide them, not just to improve their athletic skills, but also to help them develop the mindset and discipline needed to succeed. Giving back to my community is important to me because I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support of others.

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