Brisen Wright is a rising star in college football with the potential to make it to the NFL someday. At the 14U quarterfinals of the NFL Flag Championship in Canton, Ohio, the 6-foot-4, 210-pound wide receiver delivered the standout moment of the weekend (though Atlanta Braves outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. might have a different opinion).
Wright, playing for Jaguars Elite 14U, wowed everyone by splitting three defenders on a flag route and making a spectacular one-handed backhand catch in the end zone, securing a touchdown pass from quarterback Dalton Moat. This remarkable grab has earned comparisons similar to those made about catches seen in Long Island, New York, showing clear mastery of catching technique.
One-handed catches have become more common in higher levels like college football and the NFL since Odell Beckham Jr.’s iconic right-handed catch on an Eli Manning deep pass in 2014. Even Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes was impressed by Wright’s catch, reacting with “Yoo What?” on social media.
Wright’s highlight catch wasn’t his only impressive play. In the second half, he made a slick back-shoulder reception along the right sideline, catching the ball with his left hand while diving. Beyond offense, Wright showed defensive prowess similar to Travis Hunter, a player known for excelling as both receiver and defensive back. Playing safety, Wright intercepted a pass while covering the middle of the field, helping maintain the Jaguars’ 18-13 lead in the second half.
The Jaguars won the game 24-19 against the Ravens and moved on to Sunday’s championship round against a team from Clifton Park, New York.
At just 14 years old, Wright is already regarded as a four-star recruit for the 2028 class from Mandarin High School in Jacksonville, Florida. He has attracted offers from major college programs like Ohio State, Texas, Alabama, LSU, Miami, Florida, Auburn, and South Carolina.
Wright might be setting the gold standard for what NFL fans can expect from young players who participate in flag football, hinting at the potential spotlight for the sport at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.
Fan Take: This news is exciting because it highlights a young talent who could become a future NFL star, showcasing the incredible level of skill and athleticism in youth flag football. For NFL fans, players like Brisen Wright represent the next generation that could elevate the sport and bring more attention to flag football as a competitive and entertaining game.
