The world of sports is full of exceptional athletes who have more than just game skills. One such individual is the New York Jets’ defensive lineman Jowon Briggs. Not only a formidable force on the field, Briggs is also a one-man band, a tenor who can tackle and play 12 instruments. His talents extend beyond the gridiron, leaving teammates and coaches alike in awe of his musical prowess.
A Surprise Performance
During a New York Jets’ special teams meeting, Chris Banjo, the special teams coordinator, asked Briggs to sing after hearing rumors of his vocal talents. Remaining seated in a room full of teammates and coaches, the 6-foot-1, 313-pound tenor smoothly belted out Tevin Campbell’s 1990s R&B hit, “Can We Talk.” The surprise performance earned Briggs a standing ovation, leaving his teammates amazed not only at his song choice but also at the quality of his voice.
More than Just a Voice
But Briggs’ talents don’t stop at singing. The big defensive tackle has also learned to play 12 instruments, including the recorder, piano, violin, viola, cello, stand-up bass, bass guitar, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, saxophone, flute, and harmonica. His teammates were even more astonished to learn this, with defensive tackle Jay Tufele stating, “I’ve never seen anybody who could play as many instruments and be so gifted vocally.”
Outstanding on the Field and Off
Despite a mostly dismal season for the Jets, Briggs has emerged as a bright spot. Since replacing Quinnen Williams, who was traded to Dallas, Briggs has made a name for himself as a pass-rushing, run-stuffing starter. He wasn’t even on the team until a few weeks before the regular season, but he’s made his presence felt with 28 total tackles, six tackles for loss, a forced fumble, three sacks, and nine quarterback hits.
A Lifelong Passion for Music and Sports
Briggs grew up in a household that loved music and sports. His four older sisters, younger brother, and parents all shared these passions, creating a seamless blend of interests that have shaped his life. Briggs began playing the recorder in kindergarten, and his love for string instruments started with the violin in second grade. He later added acting and singing to his repertoire while attending a creative and performing arts school in Cincinnati.
A Man of Many Talents
While making a name for himself on the football field, Briggs has also been nurturing his musical talents. He has performed the national anthem before several basketball games and was part of an a cappella group that performed in London. The married father of four uses music as a way to decompress, playing his bass on the couch with headphones while his children sleep. He even has a few albums’ worth of recordings that he might consider releasing one day.
Future Plans
Though football remains his primary focus for now, Briggs knows that his other talents might help him shine long after his football career. “You can always fall back on your voice,” he said. He’s also interested in doing some stage work in the future. And while many of his teammates might still be unaware of the full extent of his musical abilities, his car’s trunk always has an amp, ready for him to plug in his guitar whenever he feels like it.
In conclusion, Briggs is not just an outstanding athlete, but also an exceptional musician. His unique combination of talents sets him apart, making him a true one-man band on and off the field.
