Lions Add Aamaris Brown: Breaking Down the UNLV Cornerback’s Fit in Detroit

The Detroit Lions continue to build out their undrafted free agent class, and one of the more intriguing additions in this year’s group is cornerback Aamaris Brown out of UNLV Rebels football.

Brown arrives in Detroit with a winding college journey and a production profile that suggests he could push for a role as a versatile defensive back. His final season at UNLV showcased his playmaking ability, highlighted by a game-clinching interception against UCLA Bruins football — a moment that underscored his instincts and ability to deliver in key situations.

In 2025, Brown posted a 69.8 overall defensive grade, including a strong 73.0 mark in run defense. His coverage grade came in at 65.5, while his tackling grade sat at 62.7, paired with a 16.7% missed tackle rate. In coverage, he allowed a 59.0% reception percentage and recorded four interceptions, six pass breakups and two touchdowns, along with four penalties. Those numbers paint the picture of an aggressive, opportunistic defender who isn’t afraid to take risks.

Brown’s path to UNLV began at Kansas State Wildcats football, where he spent two seasons but saw limited action, appearing in 13 games. He transferred to South Florida Bulls football and began carving out a larger role, playing in 28 games across three seasons and recording four interceptions. His senior year was cut short due to injury, limiting him to just five games, but he was granted a medical redshirt that allowed him one final opportunity.

He made the most of that opportunity at UNLV. In 13 games, Brown totaled 35 tackles, five tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks, while adding four interceptions — two of which he returned for touchdowns — along with seven pass deflections. His ability to impact the game in multiple phases stood out, particularly his effectiveness as a blitzer and run defender.

At 5-foot-9 and 197 pounds, Brown is slightly undersized for a traditional outside cornerback, but his skill set aligns more closely with a physical nickel or safety hybrid. He plays with a downhill mentality, showing a willingness to engage in run support and deliver hits in space.

Athletically, Brown is solid but not elite. He reportedly ran a 4.53-second 40-yard dash and posted a 34.5-inch vertical jump. On tape, that translates to a good closing burst, though he lacks top-end speed compared to higher-tier prospects at the position.

For Detroit, Brown represents the type of developmental defensive back the organization has consistently targeted. His versatility could allow him to compete for a role in sub-packages or on special teams early in his career.

The Lions have historically found value in undrafted players, with at least one making the final roster in 15 consecutive seasons through 2024 — a streak that was snapped last year. Brown will look to help restart that trend.

While he faces an uphill battle to make the roster, his production, physical play style and knack for big moments give him a legitimate chance to stick as a depth piece in Detroit’s secondary.