“MVP” − Ron Brown Jr.’s Mindset Driving His Chapter in Arizona

By Hayley Brown | Rattlers Media

GLENDALE, Ariz. – If you were to ask Ron Brown Jr. about his goals, he'd give you a straightforward answer, one that goes without explanation. 

"MVP," Brown said with excitement. "That's all you need to write." 

It's a simple statement, but it reflects the mindset of the Arizona Rattlers' running back, whose journey through football has been anything but simple. 

From his young career being shaped by family to navigating professional football at every level, Brown's story is one of persistence and purpose with constant change. 

"I got into football because of my mother," Brown said. "She finally agreed to let me play, and that's when my football career took off." 

With his father in the military, much of Brown's early life was spent with his mom. What started as a hesitant decision quickly turned into a huge opportunity. From Pop Warner to making varsity football as a freshman, Brown began to realize that football could take him further than he ever imagined. 

"I stayed up all night playing video games before a camp," Brown said. "My dad was mad, said I was going to do terribly. But I went out there and passed with flying colors…that was an eye-opening moment for both of us." 

From there, with the support of his family and the belief in himself, Brown knew this wouldn't be a short journey. 

Brown's journey has taken him across nearly every level of football − from Division II at Shepherd University to the NFL and the CFL. Now in his second season with the Arizona Rattlers, Brown says his path depends on your perspective. 

"Some can say it's been a successful, easy road, and some can say it's been very stressful," Brown said. "It just depends on how you look at it."

Despite the ups and downs, Brown sees value in every step along the way. 

"I was at the top, went to the NFL, went to the CFL, and now I'm in the IFL, which is still a great accomplishment," he said. "Not a lot of people can do it." 

Now, as his career has led him to Arizona with the Rattlers, Brown has embraced both his role and the unique demands of indoor football − a faster, tighter version of the game that has reshaped his approach. 

"The IFL is faster than the CFL and NFL combined, in my opinion," Brown said. "You can score three touchdowns in 15 seconds if you do it right."

The pace of the IFL has forced Brown to adjust his approach, shaping him into a more complete player, with versatility now one of his defining strengths. 

"I'm very versatile…you can line me up in the slot, I can run routes, return kicks − I'm a do-it-all back," Brown said. "I'm available wherever they need to put me on the field." 

His ability to adapt has shown off the field as well. Early in his college career, Brown faced a challenge that demanded a different kind of growth − balancing football with fatherhood. Now, that responsibility fuels his motivation. Every step in his career is tied to a bigger purpose beyond the game. 

"It's always been a dream of mine to get back to the NFL and take care of my family," Brown said.

With the Rattlers, Brown has found a situation that reflects his mindset. He points to the coaching staff and locker room culture as key pieces of a team working toward achieving a common goal. 

"I love the Rattlers. The coaches are amazing…they go above and beyond," he said. "We all have one goal, and that's to win a championship."

But Brown is quick to emphasize that reaching that goal will require more than just talent. Consistency, he says, is what separates good teams from great ones. 

"We can't be 80%, 92% or 99% − we've got to be 100%," he said. 

It's a philosophy that has been reinforced throughout his career − one built on preparation and daily effort.

"You practice how you play," Brown said. "Just working hard, bringing your hard hat every day, and trying to be a better version of yourself."

That mentality − equal parts discipline and belief − continues to define Brown's journey. Whether it leads him back to the NFL or to a championship in Arizona, his approach remains unchanged.