Brayden Narveson from the Tennessee Titans joined Karisa Maxwell and Sports Philanthropy Network on Radio Row at Super Bowl. Brayden shared his insights into his journey as a professional football placekicker, his experiences with teams like the Titans and the Green Bay Packers, and his commitment to promoting Type 1 diabetes awareness, a condition he personally manages.
Brayden Narveson
Brayden Narveson, born on September 28, 1999, in Scottsdale, Arizona, is a professional American football placekicker. He began his collegiate career at Iowa State University, where he played during the 2018 and 2019 seasons. Seeking more opportunities, Narveson transferred to Western Kentucky University, serving as the team’s primary kicker from 2020 to 2022. In his final collegiate year, he played for North Carolina State University, where he notably kicked a 57-yard field goal, the longest in the school’s history.
After going undrafted in the 2024 NFL Draft, Narveson signed with the Tennessee Titans as a free agent. During the preseason, he impressed by converting seven of eight field goal attempts, including a remarkable 59-yard kick. Despite his preseason performance, he was released in favor of veteran kicker Nick Folk. Shortly after, the Green Bay Packers claimed Narveson off waivers, naming him their starting kicker. In his NFL debut against the Philadelphia Eagles, he made three of four field goal attempts and both extra points. However, after missing five of 17 field goal attempts over six games, the Packers released him in October 2024.
Narveson returned to the Titans in December 2024, initially joining their practice squad before being promoted to the active roster. In his sole regular-season appearance that month, he missed his only field goal attempt but successfully converted two extra points. Beyond his on-field endeavors, Narveson is an advocate for Type 1 diabetes awareness, a condition he manages personally. He actively participates in events aimed at inspiring and supporting others living with the disease, emphasizing that medical conditions shouldn’t limit one’s aspirations.
Tennessee Titans
The Tennessee Titans, originally established as the Houston Oilers in 1960, relocated to Tennessee in 1997 and rebranded as the Titans in 1999. They compete in the NFL’s AFC South division and play their home games at Nissan Stadium in Nashville. The franchise has experienced notable successes, including two AFL championships in the early 1960s and an appearance in Super Bowl XXXIV during the 1999 season.
In recent developments, the Titans concluded the 2024 season with a 3-14 record, leading to significant organizational changes. The team appointed Brian Callahan as head coach and Mike Borgonzi as general manager. Holding the first overall pick in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft, the Titans are exploring various strategies, including the possibility of trading the top selection.
The franchise is also preparing for a major infrastructure upgrade, with plans to move into a new stadium set to be completed in 2027. This development underscores the organization’s commitment to enhancing the fan experience and securing the team’s presence in Nashville for the foreseeable future.
WATCH INTERVIEW
0:05 – Brayden Narveson’s Advocacy for Type 1 Diabetes – Titans kicker Brayden Narveson joins Karisa Maxwell to discuss his experience living with Type 1 diabetes as a professional athlete and his efforts to spread awareness.
0:34 – Narveson was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in high school after a year of unexplained illness. His mother insisted on screening despite initial doubts from doctors.
1:00 – He emphasizes that diabetes should not prevent individuals from achieving their goals and hopes to inspire others through his story.
1:19 – He represents Omnipod, a tubeless and waterproof insulin pump that allows him to manage his blood sugar levels without removing it during games.
1:47 – Narveson shares early warning signs, including unexplained weight loss, frequent urination, constant hunger, and fatigue, encouraging parents to be aware of these symptoms.
1:26 – Impact of Omnipod on His Training & Performance Before using Omnipod, insulin injections interrupted his training. The device now allows him to focus on football without constant disruptions.
3:40 – Narveson receives letters from young athletes inspired by seeing him wear his insulin pump proudly on the field, helping them believe they can achieve their dreams too.
4:32 – He follows a strict nutrition plan to regulate blood sugar levels, minimize carbohydrate overload, and ensure peak performance.
5:00 – Narveson directs people to Omnipod’s website (Omnipod.com) for safety and usage information for those considering it.
5:27 – Narveson expresses gratitude for being able to share his journey and encourages early testing, awareness, and proper management of diabetes.
