Who is Journey Brown, the former Penn State RB who pitted for Justin Haley at the Vegas NASCAR Cup race?

Journey Brown left football when he was just 21 years and now found solace in NASCAR.

Journey Brown (Left)and Justin Haley (Right) (Credits: Fox sports)

Former Penn State football standout Journey Brown, known for his dazzling performances on the gridiron, has taken a remarkable turn in his career, transitioning from the football field to the high-octane world of NASCAR. Forced to retire due to a health issue, Brown has found a new purpose as a developmental pit crew member for Kaulig Racing and Trackhouse Racing. He served as Justin Haley‘s tire changer at the South Point 400 in Las Vegas last weekend.

Brown made his NASCAR debut at Daytona International Speedway, showcasing his agility and determination as a tire changer for the No. 13 car driven by Chandler Smith. The energy he brought to the pit crew didn’t go unnoticed, with Shaun Peet, pit coach at Trackhouse Racing, expressing admiration for Brown’s perspective and work ethic. Peet remarked on NBC, saying, “This kid is going to be the best (tire) changer in NASCAR.”

The journey from football to NASCAR wasn’t an obvious path for Brown, whose initial exposure to the sport was limited. However, a chance encounter with NASCAR’s inner workings at Trackhouse Racing’s race shop in Concord, North Carolina, led to Brown embracing this new opportunity. Despite his lack of familiarity with the sport, Brown’s athleticism, honed on the football field, seamlessly translated to the demands of a NASCAR pit crew member.

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He was present at the Las Vegas South Point 400 race last weekend to serve Justin Haley’s Chevrolet, donning an artsy look. Haley will have Brown as part of his pit crew at the upcoming 4EVER 400 Presented by Mobil 1 on October 22, 2023. Haley, known for his bold move to Rick Ware Racing for the 2024 season, has been navigating an average 2023 season. With no wins and a single top-five finish, he currently holds the 27th spot in the driver standings.

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Why did Journey Brown leave the sport?

Having experienced the highs and lows of a football career, Brown faced the heartbreaking reality of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a diagnosis that abruptly ended his gridiron dreams. Initially struggling with the loss, Brown’s perspective shifted as he considered his loved ones, especially his young daughter Aleigha. His college football stats at Penn State showcased 137 carries, 934 yards, 13 touchdowns, and an impressive 6.8 yards per carry average.

Journey Brown practicing a pit stop at the Track House Racing's factory — Journey Brown practicing a pit stop at the Track House Racing’s factory (Credits: Trackhouse Racing)

With newfound determination, he embraced the challenge of finding a new purpose beyond football. As Brown prepares to pit the No. 11 Chevrolet driven by Justin Haley at the upcoming 4EVER 400 Presented by Mobil 1 in Las Vegas, it marks a significant milestone in his nascent NASCAR career.

Journey Brown was a @PennStateFball star before being sidelined.

He found a new calling in @NASCAR as a pit crew member with @TeamTrackhouse and @KauligRacing. pic.twitter.com/rnN3qZsV4W
— NBC Sports (@NBCSports) September 3, 2023

Brown’s role as a tire changer showcases not only his resilience but also his commitment to excelling in a different arena. His story is an inspiring testament to adaptability, reminding us that setbacks can lead to unexpected opportunities. Brown’s rare shift from football stardom to a vital NASCAR pit crew role narrates resilience, determination, and unwavering passion amid unexpected athletic transitions.