In a celebration of achievement and inspiration, A.J. Brown, the Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver and former Ole Miss football star, is set to deliver the keynote address at the University of Mississippi’s 2025 Commencement Convocation on Saturday, May 10, 2025. The ceremony will take place at 9 a.m. in the Grove, a historic and picturesque setting on campus.
Chancellor Glenn Boyce expressed his excitement about Brown's return to campus, stating, "It is an honor to welcome A.J. Brown back to campus as our 2025 Commencement speaker. 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." This sentiment reflects the deep respect held for Brown within the Ole Miss community, where he has left a lasting legacy.
Brown, a Starkville native, made headlines during his time at Ole Miss, where he became the school’s all-time leading receiver with an impressive total of 2,984 receiving yards. He was a standout player, having been ranked as the 47th player nationally in the 2016 recruiting class when he committed to play for the Rebels. His collegiate career saw him break multiple records, including setting a single-season record for receptions with 85 in 2018, and leading the Southeastern Conference in receiving yards with 1,252 and touchdowns with 11 during his sophomore year.
After declaring for the NFL Draft in December 2018, Brown was selected by the Tennessee Titans in the second round of the 2019 draft. His impact was immediate; he finished third in the AP Rookie of the Year voting and quickly established himself as a key player. In 2022, Brown was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles, where he has continued to excel. He played a pivotal role in helping the Eagles secure a Super Bowl victory last season, catching three passes for 43 yards and a touchdown against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Beyond his athletic prowess, Brown is also recognized for his philanthropic efforts. In 2023, he launched the A.J. Brown Foundation, which focuses on literacy, education, and mentorship for young people. His commitment to giving back to the community earned him the title of the 2024 Emerging Young Philanthropist from the Ole Miss Women’s Council for Philanthropy. Brown’s advocacy was highlighted during the NFL Playoffs when he was photographed reading the book "Inner Excellence: Train Your Mind for Extraordinary Performance and the Best Possible Life" on the sidelines, which led to a surge in the book’s popularity, making it a bestseller on Amazon.
As he prepares to address the graduates, Brown reflects on his own journey: "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, with some success under my belt and with the same hunger I had back then, it’s a blessing. It means they see something in me worth sharing, something the next class can take with them. It’s humbling, it’s emotional, and it’s a reminder that no matter how far you go, never forget where you came from."
The upcoming Commencement Convocation is part of a series of graduation ceremonies scheduled from May 7 to May 10, 2025, with various events taking place across the campus. Brown’s speech is highly anticipated, as he aims to inspire the next generation of graduates with his message of faith, perseverance, and authenticity.
Previous commencement speakers at Ole Miss have included notable figures such as Bradford Cobb, a 1996 alumnus and music industry executive, and ESPN senior writer Wright Thompson. Brown’s selection as this year’s speaker underscores the university’s commitment to honoring its distinguished alumni who have made significant contributions both in their professional fields and to society.
As the date approaches, excitement builds among students and faculty alike. A.J. Brown not only represents athletic excellence but also embodies the spirit of service and community engagement that Ole Miss values. His journey from a young athlete in Starkville to a Super Bowl champion and philanthropist serves as a powerful reminder of the potential that lies within every graduate.
In summation, A.J. Brown’s keynote address at the University of Mississippi’s 2025 Commencement Convocation promises to be a moment of inspiration and reflection for graduates as they prepare to embark on their own journeys. His story is one of hard work, dedication, and giving back, making him an ideal role model as they step into the next chapter of their lives.
