A.J. Brown to Inspire Graduates as Ole Miss Commencement Speaker

OXFORD, Miss. – A.J. Brown, a wide receiver for the Super Bowl-winning Philadelphia Eagles and a former standout at the University of Mississippi, will serve as the keynote speaker for the school’s 172nd annual Commencement on May 10. The ceremony will take place at 9 a.m. in the Grove.

Chancellor Glenn Boyce expressed excitement about Brown’s participation, highlighting his journey from student to professional athlete. “It is an honor to welcome A.J. Brown back to campus as our 2025 Commencement speaker,” Boyce said. “He is the epitome of excellence, determination and service – all characteristics that our graduates will need as they embark on the next steps in their own journeys.”

Brown, who grew up in Starkville, Mississippi, found significant success during his time at Ole Miss, where he set multiple school records, including the all-time leading receiver with 2,984 receiving yards and breaking the single-season record with 85 receptions in 2018.

Reflecting on his time at Ole Miss, Brown remarked, “I remember being here at Ole Miss wondering what my future would look like, dreaming big but not really knowing what was ahead. To stand up there now, with experience and some success under my belt, it’s a blessing.” He emphasized the importance of humility and memory in his journey, stating, “It means they see something in me worth sharing, something the next class can take with them.”

Drafted by the Tennessee Titans in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft, Brown quickly made his mark in the NFL. He finished third in AP Rookie of the Year voting and was selected to the Pro Bowl in his second season. In 2022, he transitioned to the Philadelphia Eagles, where he achieved immediate success, including being part of the team that claimed the Super Bowl title this past season.

Brown’s achievements extend beyond football; he founded the A.J. Brown Foundation in 2023, aimed at promoting literacy and education for young people. His commitment to philanthropy was recognized when the Ole Miss Women’s Council for Philanthropy named him the 2024 Emerging Young Philanthropist.

Brown hopes his speech will resonate with graduates, encouraging them to embrace their journeys and pursue their dreams. “Don’t be afraid to bet on yourself and don’t forget to enjoy the journey,” he advised.

The Commencement ceremonies at Ole Miss will span from May 7 to May 10 across various campus locations, culminating in the Convocation led by Brown in the Grove.