Billy Napier retains, promotes former Florida DB Vernell Brown

Vernell Brown will remain on staff with the Florida football program. New Gator head coach Billy Napier has retained Brown and promoted him to an expanded role.

Brown, who was dubbed the “Face of Florida Football” in 2005, returned to his alma mater in 2018 as a director of player development. Florida announced Thursday that Brown will be senior director of player development and alumni relations on Napier’s staff.

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Here’s how Florida describes Brown’s responsibilities:

Brown will continue to play a key role in the program, serving as a lead for personal development, mental health, and collegiate affairs for current athletes.

Brown will serve as a bridge between current athletes and former players. He will also assist in creating connections between University of Florida and University Athletic Association personnel and current players to create a network of support.

A Gainesville native, Brown played at Florida from 2001-05 for 3 coaches: Steve Spurrier, Ron Zook and Urban Meyer.

Andrew Olson

Andrew writes about sports to fund his love of live music and collection of concert posters. He strongly endorses the Hall of Fame campaigns of Fred Taylor and Andruw Jones.