Chris Braswell Bio
Chris Braswell is an American professional football linebacker for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League (NFL). Standing 6 feet 3 inches tall and weighing 255 pounds, he plays a key role as a pass rusher and edge defender. He played college football for the Alabama Crimson Tide before being selected in the 2024 NFL Draft. Known for his athletic frame and quick first step, Braswell has quickly developed into a rotational defensive piece for Tampa Bay.
Born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland, Braswell rose through the high school ranks as a five-star recruit before joining one of the most decorated programs in college football. His path from Saint Frances Academy to Alabama and then to the NFL reflects steady development at every level. He continues to build his professional resume as an active member of the Buccaneers roster.
Early Life and Background
Chris Braswell was born on October 25, 2001, in Baltimore, Maryland. He attended Saint Frances Academy, a well-known football program that has produced multiple NFL players. Growing up in Baltimore, Braswell was introduced to football at a young age and developed into one of the most sought-after defensive prospects in the country.
After his senior season at Saint Frances Academy, Braswell played in the 2020 Under Armour All-America Game, a showcase event that features the top high school football players in the nation. He was rated a five-star recruit and ranked among the elite edge rushers in his class. His combination of size, speed, and strength made him a priority target for several top college football programs.
Braswell committed to play college football at the University of Alabama over offers from Georgia, LSU, Clemson, and Ohio State. His decision to join the Crimson Tide was influenced by Alabama’s strong tradition of developing defensive players into NFL-caliber athletes. The Baltimore native’s recruitment was one of the most closely watched in the 2020 class.
Path to American Football
Braswell joined the Alabama Crimson Tide as an early enrollee in January 2020, allowing him to participate in spring practices and adjust to the college level before his first official season. The early enrollment helped him build a foundation within Alabama’s defensive scheme under the program’s coaching staff. However, he did not play in any games during his freshman season as he continued to develop physically and mentally.
In 2021, Braswell began to see the field as a rotational player. He played on Alabama’s special teams unit and served as a rotational pass rusher, finishing the season with 11 tackles, one tackle for loss, and two quarterback hurries. His sophomore campaign showed steady improvement and earned him a larger role within the defensive rotation.
As a junior in 2022, Braswell primarily served as part of Alabama’s pass rush rotation and was featured in the team’s “cheetah” package, a defensive alignment that includes three outside linebackers instead of two. He finished the season with 20 tackles, four tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, six quarterback pressures, and one forced fumble. After considering entering the 2023 NFL Draft, he opted to return to Alabama for his senior season to further refine his skills and improve his draft stock.
Chris Braswell Career
Early Career (2020-2022)
Chris Braswell’s early career at Alabama was marked by patience and gradual development. After arriving as a highly touted recruit in January 2020, he spent his freshman year adjusting to the speed and complexity of college football without seeing game action. The redshirt period allowed him to build his body and learn the Crimson Tide’s defensive system.
By his sophomore season in 2021, Braswell had earned a role on special teams and as a rotational pass rusher. His production grew during his junior year in 2022, when he became a more consistent contributor in Alabama’s pass rush rotation. The experience he gained during these developmental years laid the groundwork for his breakout senior campaign and eventual entry into the NFL.
Alabama Crimson Tide Breakthrough (2023)
Braswell’s senior season in 2023 represented his most productive year at Alabama. After considering the 2023 NFL Draft, he returned to school and delivered a strong campaign that showcased his pass-rushing ability. His performance earned him Second-team All-SEC honors, recognizing him as one of the top linebackers in the Southeastern Conference.
The decision to return for his senior season proved valuable for Braswell’s draft prospects. His combination of production, physical measurables, and the pedigree of playing at Alabama helped solidify his status as a top NFL prospect. He concluded his college career as a respected edge defender ready for the next level.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Era (2024-Present)
Chris Braswell was selected by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the second round, 57th overall, of the 2024 NFL Draft. The Buccaneers viewed him as a developmental pass rusher with the physical tools to contribute immediately and grow into a larger role over time. His selection continued Tampa Bay’s commitment to rebuilding its defensive front.
In his rookie season, Braswell recorded 48 tackles, 2.5 sacks, and one forced fumble, establishing himself as an active contributor on Tampa Bay’s defense. As of the 2025 season, he remains an active member of the Buccaneers roster wearing jersey number 43. His early production suggests a promising trajectory as he continues to refine his craft at the professional level.
Driving Style and Strengths
Braswell is known for his combination of size, length, and athleticism that makes him effective as an edge rusher. His quick first step and ability to bend around offensive tackles allow him to pressure quarterbacks in passing situations. He continues to develop his run-defense fundamentals and pass-rush technique to become a more complete linebacker.
Notable Events and Milestones
Among Braswell’s key milestones is his participation in the 2020 Under Armour All-America Game and his recognition as a five-star high school recruit. At Alabama, he earned Second-team All-SEC honors in 2023, and he was selected 57th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, marking the start of his professional career.
Chris Braswell Career Wins
Chris Braswell’s career highlights include individual and team achievements at both the college and professional levels. While he has not yet accumulated extensive win totals as a young professional, his trajectory points toward continued development. His most notable recognition came during his senior season at Alabama with Second-team All-SEC honors.
Alabama Crimson Tide Highlights
During his time at Alabama, Braswell contributed to one of the most successful programs in college football. As a rotational pass rusher and special teams contributor, he helped the Crimson Tide compete at the highest level of college football. His Second-team All-SEC selection in 2023 stands as the primary individual accolade of his college career.
Other Wins and Performances
Braswell’s pre-college career included standout performances at Saint Frances Academy and in the 2020 Under Armour All-America Game. His five-star recruit rating reflected his status as one of the top defensive prospects in his high school class, and his commitment to Alabama over other major programs underscored his high-level recruitment profile.
Chris Braswell Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Chris Braswell was born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland, where he developed his passion for football. His upbringing in Baltimore and his time at Saint Frances Academy were central to his development as a player and as a person.
Personal Life
Braswell converted to Islam at the age of 10 years old. During his time at Alabama, he was an active member at the Islamic Society of Tuscaloosa. He has influenced several of his teammates to embrace the religion as well, reflecting his commitment to his faith and community.
2025 Season Performance
Chris Braswell enters the 2025 season as an active member of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers roster. After a productive rookie campaign in which he recorded 48 tackles, 2.5 sacks, and one forced fumble, expectations are high for his continued growth as a key rotational piece on Tampa Bay’s defense. His development will be a key storyline for the Buccaneers’ defensive front.
As a second-year player, Braswell is expected to take on a larger role within the Buccaneers’ defensive scheme. His pass-rushing ability and athletic profile make him a candidate for increased snap counts and more opportunities to pressure opposing quarterbacks. The 2025 season represents an important step in his progression toward becoming a full-time starter.
With the Buccaneers continuing to build around young defensive talent, Braswell’s trajectory remains a positive one. His combination of college pedigree, physical tools, and early professional production position him as a player to watch as the 2025 season unfolds. Continued improvement in technique and consistency will be central to his long-term success in the NFL.