In the high-pressure world of American football, a New York Jets defensive lineman has been hitting unexpected high notes, revealing a remarkable double life as a gifted musician. Jowon Briggs, a 24-year-old tackle, recently stunned his teammates with an impromptu vocal performance, showcasing a talent that extends far beyond the gridiron.
A Surprise Serenade in the Team Meeting
The revelation occurred earlier this season during a special teams meeting. Special teams coordinator Chris Banjo, having heard whispers of Briggs' ability, turned to the 6-foot-1, 313-pound athlete and made a direct request: "Man, go ahead and sing something." Without hesitation, Briggs, remaining seated amongst his peers, delivered a smooth rendition of Tevin Campbell's 1990s R&B classic, "Can We Talk."
The performance left the room in awe. "I knew he could sing because he said he could, but then he sang in person — man, he has a beautiful voice," remarked fellow defensive tackle Harrison Phillips. Safety Isaiah Oliver called it "crazy" and "really good," with the session culminating in a standing ovation for the unexpected soloist. Briggs himself acknowledged the shock factor, noting his teammates were surprised both by his song choice and the quality of his tenor voice.
More Than a Voice: A One-Man Band
Yet, the musical surprise runs deeper. Briggs is, in fact, a self-described "one-man band" who has learned to play twelve different instruments to varying degrees. His repertoire is astonishingly broad, encompassing the recorder, piano, violin, viola, cello, stand-up bass, bass guitar, acoustic and electric guitars, saxophone, flute, and harmonica. He has even dabbled with drums.
"I've never seen anybody who could play as many instruments and be so gifted vocally," said defensive tackle Jay Tufele, summarising the sentiment of many. "He's a beast on the field and off." This musical journey began in a vibrant, competitive household in Cincinnati, where Briggs grew up with four older sisters and a younger brother in a home constantly filled with music and sport.
Balancing Football and Melody
Briggs has managed to harmonise his dual passions throughout his life. A former physics and music double-major at the University of Virginia, he performed with the University Singers, a chamber choir, and even an a cappella group that toured London. On the field, his talents have become a bright spot for the Jets in a challenging season. Since replacing the traded Quinnen Williams, Briggs has emerged as a disruptive starter, amassing 28 total tackles, six tackles for loss, three sacks, and nine quarterback hits.
Coach Aaron Glenn praised his development, particularly his rising prowess as a pass rusher. Now a married father of four, Briggs uses music to decompress, often playing his beloved bass guitar after his children are asleep and even compiling "a couple albums worth" of personal recordings. While football remains his primary focus, he sees his voice and musicality as a lasting legacy. "You can always fall back on your voice," he mused. "It’s one of them things that shouldn't go out on you like your legs."
For his teammates, the full extent of his instrumental prowess might remain a mystery—for now. "I don’t think a lot of guys even know," Briggs laughed. "And they might not ever know. I mean, until they see me put out a record 30 years from now."
