Florida Freshman’s Father Delivers Powerful Message After Son Draws Strong Odell Beckham Jr. Comparisons

It’s not often that a college debut sparks NFL comparisons, but Florida Gators’ freshman wide receiver managed to do just that. In their season opener against the LIU Sharks, the Gators proved why they came in ranked 15th nationally, snagging a 50-o triumph over the Sharks. But the highlight reel-worthy moment came courtesy of WR Vernell Brown III. He snatched an unbelievable one-handed, falling-down catch for 41 yards that had both fans and commentators buzzing about future stardom. That catch drew immediate comparisons to NFL star Odell Beckham Jr. 

QB DJ Lagway rolled right and threw a pass that was a bit above Brown’s head. Without hesitation, Brown extended his right hand, snagging the ball mid-air while falling backward, taking the Gators deep into scoring territory. That helped Florida build a 38-0 halftime lead over Long Island University in a dominant showdown. For Brown, that moment was pure pride. In his first freshman football game at the Swamp, he made a play that felt straight out of a highlight reel. But there was someone in the stands who was way more proud than even Vernell could be: his dad, Vernell Brown Jr.

“This dude has ALWAYS worked his a-s off to be ready for these moments to put the world on notice at every level!” Vernell Jr. writes on X. “He gets bigger in these moments! It’s no accident… It’s ALWAYS been this way! Proud of you, son!!!”

Vernell Jr. wore the Florida Gators jersey himself back in the early 2000s as a receiver and defensive back, and now works as the senior director of student-athlete development for UF. Talk about a full circle moment.

This dude has ALWAYS worked his ass off to be ready for these moments to put the world on notice at every level! He gets bigger in these moments! It’s no accident… It’s ALWAYS been this way! Proud of you son!!! @VB3_9 https://t.co/nEZqgQHpU6

— Vernell Brown Jr. (@CoachVB_ESM) August 31, 2025

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