Bryce Brown

A former five-star recruit who originally went to Tennessee, Brown didn't play for the Wildcats after rushing for 16 yards on three carries in the 2011 season opener. He left the team in late September and later decided to enter the 2012 draft despite having two years of eligibility remaining. It was an abrupt and disappointing end to his short Kansas State career. Brown had been expected to take over the starting job as the replacement for Daniel Thomas and was the only Wildcat named to the All-Big 12 preseason team. But he wound up third on the depth chart entering the season. Brown was once considered one of the top high school recruits in the country, rated by many ahead of Alabama's Trent Richardson. He had to battle through questions about his eligibility in 2009, when he was part of a two-back rotation, primarily backing up Montario Hardesty. Brown announced on the first day of spring practice in 2010 that he was transferring, and had to sit out the season under transfer rules after deciding in August to go to Kansas State.

strengths

Athletic specimen with the foot speed and natural burst to force defenders to take poor angles and out-run them. Coordinated frame with the body control and smooth hips and ankles to quickly change directions and make defenders miss. Strong plant-and-go footwork and make sharp cuts and redirect his momentum upfield. Good growth potential to add strength and mold his body. Highly recruited out of high school and there might be some untapped potential there with limited hits to his body.

weaknesses

Needs to run with better pad level and toughness to pick up yards after contact. Needs to show better patience and not run up the backs of his blockers. Questionable instincts and will dance too much, relying on his athleticism to try and get him out of trouble. Issues and controversy follows him everywhere he goes. Been labeled as a “bad apple” for his poor work ethic and streaky attitude, left two different top programs (Tennessee, Kansas State) on bad terms. Questionable ambition, maturity and love for the game, where are his priorities and can he be trusted?

2011: Missed the Kent State game with a foot injury.

Lettered at Wichita East under head coach Brian Byers

Earned All-America honors from USA Today and Parade Magazine as a senior

Also named all-state in 2008

Earned all-city and all-state honors as a junior.

Bryce Lee Brown was born May 14, 1991, in Wichita, Kan

Son of Son of Arthur and Leionnie Brown

Older brother, Arthur, is a linebacker at K-State.