Four former University of Southern Mississippi football players, Todd Pinkston, Swayze Bozeman, Jason Brownlee, and Eric Scott Jr. will be involved in Super Bowl LVIII as the Kansas City Chiefs face the Philadelphia Eagles, aiming for their third consecutive championship.
Bozeman, a linebacker for the Chiefs, played for Southern Miss from 2019 to 2023 after transferring from Copiah-Lincoln Community College. He was named to Phil Steele Magazine’s preseason All-Sun Belt team. Bozeman graduated with a degree in liberal studies and overcame several injuries during his college career, making his professional debut in 2024 a significant achievement.
“It’s incredible,” said Aaron Hill, Bozeman’s former athletic trainer. “Going to rehab after rehab and still being able to compete at the level he is doing is inspiring. Swayze is hardworking and determined, key traits that got him here.”
Pinkston, a former standout wide receiver for Southern Miss from 1996-1999, returns to the Super Bowl as the Chiefs’ running backs coach. Pinkston played in Super Bowl XXXIX for the Philadelphia Eagles, catching four passes for 82 yards in a narrow loss to the New England Patriots.
Brownlee, another former USM receiver, recently joined Kansas City’s practice squad. Brownlee had a record-breaking career at Southern Miss and East Mississippi Community College.
Scott Jr., a former USM standout cornerback, is also a member of the Chiefs.
Southern Miss students are enthusiastic about seeing former Golden Eagles in the spotlight during the big game.
“It’s awesome,” said student Kelby Wingo. “It really shows what our Southern Miss graduates can do, especially our football team.”
Oliver Young, another student, shared his excitement.
“I hope to see good things from them in the Super Bowl,” Young said. “They deserve it after all the work they’ve put in.”
Super Bowl LVIII kicks off Sunday, Feb. 9, at 5:30 p.m. at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans.