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Brown III's Record-Breaking Punt Returns Light Up SEC
15 Sep
Summary
- Vernell Brown III set a program record with 173 punt return yards.
- He scored two punt return touchdowns, tying a season record.
- Brown III also contributed three receptions for 43 yards and one touchdown.
Florida wide receiver Vernell Brown III earned SEC co-special teams player of the week honors following an outstanding game against the Campbell Fighting Camels. His performance included a program-record 173 punt return yards and two touchdowns, achieved on back-to-back returns.
Brown III's 64 and 70-yard punt return touchdowns now tie the program's record for punt return scores in a single season. He joins an elite group of players in program history to achieve this feat in one game.
Beyond his special teams heroics, the sophomore also made significant contributions on offense, catching three passes for 43 yards and a touchdown. This marks him as the first Florida wide receiver with three scores in a single game since 2020.
As of Week 2 in 2026, Brown III leads the Gators in receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns. He has already secured four total touchdowns, including two rushing and two punt returns, positioning him as one of four FBS players with multiple punt return touchdowns this season.
