Greg Briggs facts for kids

Greg Briggs (born October 19, 1968) is a former American football player. He played as a safety and linebacker in the National Football League (NFL). He played for teams like the Dallas Cowboys, Cleveland Browns, Chicago Bears, and Minnesota Vikings. He also played for the Frankfurt Galaxy in the World League of American Football (WLAF).

Early Life and College Football

Greg Briggs grew up in Meadville, Mississippi. He went to Franklin High School, where he was a talented basketball player. In his senior year, he was recognized as one of the best players in his area. He also took part in track and field.

College Basketball to Football

Briggs first went to Copiah-Lincoln Community College on a basketball scholarship. After two years, he decided to try playing football. In 1989, he became a starting free safety and caught 6 interceptions. He was named one of the best junior college players in the state.

In 1990, he moved to the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff for basketball. But the football coaches there convinced him to switch sports. He played in two football games before he couldn't play anymore because of a school rule about his classes.

Joining Texas Southern

The football team at Arkansas-Pine Bluff was suspended for the next year. This allowed Briggs and six teammates to join Texas Southern University. At first, he didn't have a dorm room and had to sleep on the floor.

In his senior year, Briggs played mostly in a special defense called the nickel defense and on special teams. These are the teams that play during kicks and punts. He became a starting outside linebacker after four games when another player got hurt. He also played as a safety. He was named an All-SWAC player, which means he was one of the best in his college conference. During this time, he played with Michael Strahan, who later became a very famous football player.

Professional Football Career

Dallas Cowboys (First Time)

The Dallas Cowboys picked Greg Briggs in the fifth round of the 1992 NFL draft. This happened after he showed off his skills at the NFL Combine, an event where players show what they can do for NFL teams. He first tried playing safety but then focused on being a linebacker.

He got a hip injury and was placed on a list for players who are hurt and can't play. The Cowboys went on to win Super Bowl XXVII that year. In 1993, he tried playing tight end but was later released from the team.

Cleveland Browns

In December 1993, the Cleveland Browns signed Briggs to their practice squad. These are players who practice with the team but don't usually play in games. He was released by the Browns in July 1994.

Frankfurt Galaxy

After not playing football for a year, Briggs joined the Frankfurt Galaxy in 1995. This team was part of the World League of American Football. He led his team in tackles and helped them win the World Bowl '95 championship.

Hamilton Tiger-Cats

In July 1995, he signed with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in the Canadian Football League. However, he was released before the season started.

Dallas Cowboys (Second Time)

Briggs signed with the Dallas Cowboys again in 1995 as a free agent, meaning he could sign with any team. He was released but then re-signed later that year. He played in 11 games and made 9 tackles on special teams. He was part of the team that won Super Bowl XXX. After this season, he was not re-signed.

Chicago Bears

In June 1996, the Chicago Bears signed Briggs. He played linebacker and on special teams, reuniting with his old coach, Dave Wannstedt. He was released in October but then re-signed later that month.

Minnesota Vikings

In April 1997, Briggs signed with the Minnesota Vikings. He played as a linebacker and focused on special teams. He was released from the team in August 1998.

Personal Life

After he stopped playing professional football, Greg Briggs traveled with former NFL player Reggie White. They spoke at churches together. Greg's nephew, Diyral Briggs, also played in the National Football League.