Post by David on Aug 31, 2016 11:55:42 GMT -8
DB Robert Brown (image credit: Gary Peterson Photography)
8.31.16-
Another key member of the Spokane Empire's Intense Conference Champion roster will return as the team has officially re-signed DB Robert Brown.
A four year IFL veteran out of Union College in Kentucky, Brown (5'10'', 175 lbs) will return for his second season in an Empire jersey. He was game changer on defense for the expansion Empire, playing in all 16 regular season games and leading the team with 104 total tackles (91 solo), 7 interceptions, and 12 pass breakups. His 7 interceptions were tied with Nebraska's Jabari Gorman for second in the IFL, and his 150 return yards ranked second behind Colorado's Rashard Smith (152 yards). He was also a contributor on special teams, ranking second on the team behind Trevor Kennedy with 17 returns for 262 yards.
His outstanding efforts on defense earned him First Team All-IFL honors. He also was named the IFL's Week 16 Defensive Player of the Week with a 10 tackle, 2 interception performance in Spokane's 51-41 win over the Billings Wolves.
Brown was one of the original signings by the Empire back when the team was still under the identity of the Spokane Shock. Prior to his signing, he spent the previous two seasons as a member of the Cedar Rapids Titans. As a rookie in 2014, he played in 11 games and notched 27 total tackles, 1 interception, 2 pass breakups, 1 forced fumble, and 1 fumble recovery. He also served as the Titans' primary kick returner, returning 39 kicks for 758 yards and 2 touchdowns. In 2015, he played in 12 games and recorded 31 total tackles, 1 interception and 5 pass breakups. He made his presence felt for the Titans on special teams, leading the IFL with 9 missed field goal returns for 268 yards and 2 touchdowns, and returning 30 kicks for 561 yards and two scores
Empire Head Coach Adam Shackleford praised Brown's efforts in the team's press release. “Robert provided a spark to our defense that is hard to find, and he was a huge part of our success last season. He is not only one of the best cover guys in the league, but he can also hurt you on special teams as a return man. We’re looking forward to having his leadership, confidence, and edge back in 2017.”
Before making a name for himself in the IFL, Brown played for Union College. As a member of the Dutchmen, Brown recorded 182 total tackles (10 for loss), 9 interceptions, 8 blocked kicks, and 6 forced fumbles.
Brown is also the twin brother of RB Rob Brown, who played this past season with the now-dormant Tri-Cities Fever.
- DKH
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