Before Bryson Nesbit ever stepped onto a football field, he had already begun learning the game—through the wisdom and experience of his father, Jamar Nesbit. A former NFL offensive lineman who played over a decade with the Carolina Panthers and New Orleans Saints, Jamar passed down not just the physical techniques of the sport, but also the mindset, discipline, and resilience needed to succeed at the highest level.
Now a standout tight end for the North Carolina Tar Heels, Bryson Nesbit is carving his own path in football, but his journey began long before he put on a helmet. Growing up in a household where football was part of everyday life, he absorbed lessons that would shape his approach to the game and life itself.
Learning the Game from the Sidelines
As a child, Bryson didn’t just watch football on TV—he lived it. With a father who had firsthand experience in the NFL trenches, he was exposed to the nuances of the game at an early age. While some kids learned football from youth leagues, Bryson had a front-row seat to the sport at its highest level.
Jamar, a Super Bowl champion with the Saints, never pressured his son to follow in his footsteps. Instead, he instilled in Bryson the importance of work ethic, mental toughness, and preparation. “He always taught me that football isn’t just about talent—it’s about consistency, studying the game, and taking care of your body,†Bryson once said.
From Basketball to the Gridiron
Interestingly, Bryson didn’t initially plan to pursue football. His early athletic focus was on basketball, and his 6-foot-6 frame made him a natural fit for the sport. However, as he grew older, he realized that his physical tools and skill set were perfectly suited for the tight end position. With guidance from his father, he made the transition to football in high school, quickly emerging as a top prospect.
Despite his late start in the sport compared to some of his peers, Bryson’s football IQ—sharpened by years of conversations with his dad—helped him excel. His ability to read defenses, block effectively, and make plays downfield set him apart.
Forging His Own Path
At North Carolina, Bryson has developed into one of the most dynamic tight ends in college football. His combination of size, speed, and hands makes him a valuable asset in the passing game, and his blocking ability—something his father certainly emphasized—has continued to improve.
With the NFL on the horizon, Bryson is well aware of the legacy his father left behind, particularly with the Panthers. While he respects and appreciates the foundation Jamar provided, he is focused on making his own mark. “I want to be known for what I do on the field, not just as my dad’s son,†he has said in past interviews.
Still, the lessons passed down from father to son remain at the core of his journey. Whether it was through watching film, learning about the importance of nutrition and recovery, or simply understanding the mental approach needed to succeed, Bryson Nesbit’s football education started long before he ever suited up.
Now, as he continues to rise in the football world, he carries both his father’s wisdom and his own ambition—ready to leave his own legacy, just like his dad did before him.
