Cedar Rapids Jefferson’s Braylon Evans inspired by memory of late father

CEDAR RAPIDS — Braylon Evans walks by a picture displayed in the Cedar Rapids Jefferson hallways.

The photo of the 1992 football team serves as a welcome sight and a difficult memory. His late father, Nelson Evans III, was an all-state lineman on the squad that reached the Class 4A state semifinals.

“There is a picture of him and his team and I’ve seen some of his college film,” Evans said of his dad, who died unexpectedly Sept. 26 at the age of 47. “I walk through the hallway every day at school.

“It’s kind of both (good and tough). I like seeing his face and seeing him in his football gear. Just remembering him.”

Evans continues to wear the same school colors and take the Kingston Stadium field 30 years after his dad did. He carries on the family legacy, despite a heavy heart. Something he said his dad would want him to do.

“I think about how he enjoyed, and enjoys still, watching me,” said Evans, who is listed as Nelson Evans IV on the Jefferson roster. “He always wanted me to be the best in whatever I wanted to do. I like football so I want to keep playing.”

Nelson Evans III had a passion for football, especially Jefferson football. He returned to his alma mater and served as an assistant coach previously. Nelson coached Braylon in flag football and the Metro Youth Football Association. The pair also worked on the game together away from organized practice.

They bonded over watching NFL and college football games together.

“He inspired me to play football and watch football,” Evans said. “He taught me to play defensive end and D-Line, where he played, too. Ever since I started playing, he was coaching me.

“I liked it because it was someone I really knew. I knew I could trust him a lot.”

The 6-foot-4, 260-pound sophomore has aspirations to play in college. He recalled attending University of Iowa football games with his dad, who played football at Truman State.

“I liked Iowa,” Evans said. “He wasn’t that big of a fan. He said he would be when I went there.”

Jefferson Coach Ed Miles said Nelson was an ardent supporter of Braylon, taking him to practices and early-morning workouts. The loss creates a huge void. One the teammates and coaches have tried to fill.

“I know he’s taking it day by day,” said Miles, noting that he believes Braylon has a bright future in football. “We try to create that healthy space for him. I like the progression, but if you’ve ever lost a loved one, especially a parent, I don’t care how old you are, it’s never an easy thing.”

The J-Hawks have tried to rally around their “Gentle Giant.” They offered heartfelt messages after they learned about the death. Their comfort has helped him through a rough time.

“They’ve really showed me they have been there for me,” Evans said. “They will be forever.”

Sports can often provide a respite from the worries and stress of everyday life. Miles said football is a sport that brings people together. Jefferson players and coaches consider themselves a family and are devoted to show love and support Evans during a trying time.

“I think he’s been doing well in practice,” Miles said. “Just continuing to get at it. I’m proud of the kid for continuing to grind and push through, even though I know it’s not easy for him.”