Growing up in Starkville, Mississippi, AJ Brown experienced hardships most only see in movies — nights in a small trailer, days when even a basic meal was a struggle, and dreams of a future that felt impossibly distant.
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Brown, however, did not let his circumstances define him; instead, he used them as fuel to become an NFL star and now a Super Bowl champion. But making it to the big league is not what his story is all about—it’s about resilience, faith, and never forgetting where he came from.
On the Million Dollaz Worth Of Game podcast, the Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver revealed that he expresses his gratitude to God after every success, remembering what it felt like to be at the bottom. Having grown up without a silver spoon, he sees every achievement as a blessing.
Now, at a point in life where he can afford any luxury without a second thought, how could he not thank God? Brown implied as much—after all, for someone who once lived off ketchup sandwiches in a trailer, owning a $5.5 million mansion is nothing short of extraordinary.
“I’ve seen the bottom before—I know what it’s like. I’m not going to say I grew up struggling, but I grew up in a trailer. I know what it’s like to eat ketchup sandwiches and go through tough times,” said the receiver.
“And now, to be in a position where I can have whatever I want, do whatever I want, buy whatever I want—it’s all because He’s been blessing me tremendously, even more than I ever asked for. That’s why it’s so important for me to give my praise to Him,” he added.
But it’s not just the material wealth that the Eagles WR is grateful to God for. In Brown’s eyes, he wouldn’t be a millionaire today if not for the talent he was given. So, his ability on the field is the greatest gift from God, the three-time Pro Bowler said.
“Not just for the things He blesses me with, but because He’s the reason I’m here, doing what I’m doing. The talent I have—it’s a gift from Him. So for me, dedicating myself to my craft, giving my all, is my way of giving back. I wouldn’t be in this position if it weren’t for Him.”
Brown also emphasized the significance of passing faith and gratitude to his children — daughter Jersee and son A.J. Brown Jr.
He believes the next generation should be taught from an early age that gratitude to God should be at the heart of everything they do, irrespective of success.
“Even my kids, they’re four and two, and they’re praying with me. My daughter may just be asking for things, but she’s learning… It’s important for my family to know that He’s the reason we’re in this position.”
From living in a trailer to balling at Ole Miss to becoming a Super Bowl winner, AJ Brown’s journey is a testament to resilience and faith. Impressively, his humble beginnings also remind him that today’s success can disappear in an instant—one of the key reasons he stays grounded at all costs.
