Behind the Facemask: Eli Brown

"Behind the Facemask" is a new series in which I interview Kentucky football players with the intent of showcasing their unique personality and background. By doing so, I hope to help the BBN by getting to know the person under the helmet. The first installment is linebacker Eli Brown. In a season that linebacker play will be at a premium, Eli Brown has taken advantage of the situation by running with the first team in fall camp. He’s gained 15 pounds while maintaining elite speed. Brown was a highly sought after prospect as he starred for Warren East High School in Bowling Green. Rated a 4-star by all four major recruiting services, Brown was also ranked by ESPN as the nation’s 15th best outside linebacker. His Warren East play garnered an invite to play in the US Army All American Bowl. I spoke with Eli on Monday, and he told me why he plays the game: https://youtu.be/pD3JkZUHR6Q "I love the game because I play the game for my brothers and sisters in Florida, and my mother who passed a couple of years ago," Brown said. "Every time I step on the field, I thank her every time for introducing me to the game and the sport. I give it all I got just for her." Courtney Love will have either Eli Brown or Jordan Jones standing by his side come September 3. Both are capable of holding down the spot due to their sideline-to-sideline speed as well as their ability to cover the pass in space. Brown’s future is bright as he’s now getting the opportunity to validate his high-profile recruitment.