2019 NFL draft: Introducing Keenen Brown, the sleeper of the tight end class

There are plenty of recognizable names from bigger programs among this year’s tight end class, but if you’re looking for a sleeper who could make some noise at the next level, Texas State’s Keenen Brown has all the tools to be that guy.

A well-rounded prospect who excelled in his lone season as a Bobcat, Brown recently spoke exclusively with MCM about his experience at the combine and why he loves playing tight end.

JM: How would you grade your overall performance at the combine?

KB: I thought I did pretty well out there. I went out there and did the best that I could. I feel like the NFL teams have a pretty good idea of what I can bring to the next level. I worked hard out there.

JM: Is there anything you’re looking to improve on at your pro day?

KB: I’ll probably do the shuttle drills again. That was the last drill I went through and my legs were definitely feeling it. They keep us busy and my legs went a little dead at that point. You’ll probably see me improve on those numbers at my pro day.

JM: What’s your favorite part about playing tight end?

KB: I get to be an offensive linemen and a wide receiver all while playing one position. That’s my favorite part about playing tight end. It’s the best of both worlds. I can catch the ball and look pretty doing that and then I can go inside on the next play and get dirty with the big boys. I love that part of the game.

JM: You don’t find a lot of tight ends nowadays that enjoy blocking.

KB: You’re absolutely right about that. You just have to enjoy it. I understand that it comes with the position. I embrace it. You can’t avoid it so I might as well attack it to the best of my ability.

JM: You’re pretty elusive in the open field as well.

KB: I’m trying to make a play as soon as I get the ball in my hands. I’m just always trying to get a first down or a touchdown. I don’t let the first two people tackle me. That’s really my mindset when I have the ball in my hands. I go into every game with the same mentality. I’m not gonna be easy to tackle.

JM: What’s the best lesson any coach ever taught you?

KB: Really just to take things one day at a time. You can’t press too forward or overlook anything. Don’t sweat the small stuff. I make sure I’m prepared for every game and handle my business like a professional. It’s important to practice like a pro. My tight end coaches always preached that to me. Practice like a pro and you’ll play like one. I just take everything one day at a time. That always stuck with me.

JM: Do you watch any television?

KB: Yeah, I definitely do when I can. I love when I have the time for some good television.

JM: What was the last thing you binge watched?

KB: Someone got me the seasons of Martin on DVD for my birthday. I’ve been watching that for a while now.

JM: Martin as in the old sitcom with Martin Lawrence?

KB: Yeah (laughs). I love that show. Old school Martin.

JM: That’s so cool (laughs). Shout out to whoever got you that gift.

KB: Yeah, they got it off Amazon. I’m loving it.

JM: In closing Keenen, what kind of man is an organization getting when they draft Keenen Brown?

KB: They’re getting a humble football player first and foremost. I’m gonna respect the organization and not bring any shame to it. I’m very punctual and I’m always gonna be there for my teammates.