Tyson Brothers Chasing Shared Professional Dream in Cleveland

Jaylon Tyson sets the tone for the Cavaliers, while his younger brother Jordyn eyes the NFL draft with the Browns holding a top pick.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Jaylon Tyson, the Cavaliers' 2024 first-round draft pick, has been setting the example for his younger brother Jordyn, a wide receiver at Arizona State University who is preparing for the upcoming NFL draft. The brothers, who grew up competing against each other in their backyard, now have the opportunity to potentially play professionally in the same city of Cleveland, with the Cavaliers and Browns both holding high draft picks. Jaylon has been thriving in his role with the Cavaliers, showcasing his defensive intensity and competitive edge, while Jordyn aims to follow in his brother's footsteps and hear his name called in the first round of the NFL draft.

Why it matters

The Tyson brothers' journey represents the realization of a shared dream, as they look to turn their backyard competition into a shared professional stage. Their story highlights the power of sibling rivalry and support, as well as the challenges and triumphs of pursuing a career in professional sports.

The details

Jaylon Tyson, the Cavaliers' 2024 first-round pick, has been a key contributor for the team, particularly on the defensive end. In a recent win over the Pistons, Jaylon was tasked with slowing down MVP candidate Cade Cunningham, holding him to just 5-of-18 shooting and forcing five turnovers. Jaylon's competitive edge and relentless defense have been a driving force for the Cavaliers, as he looks to set the standard for his younger brother Jordyn, who is preparing for the NFL draft. Jordyn, a wide receiver at Arizona State, recently participated in the NFL combine and is hoping to hear his name called in the first round, potentially by the Cleveland Browns, who hold the 6th overall pick.

  • Jaylon Tyson was drafted by the Cavaliers with the 20th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft.
  • Jordyn Tyson recently participated in the NFL combine ahead of the 2023 NFL Draft.

The players

Jaylon Tyson

A 23-year-old guard for the Cleveland Cavaliers, who was drafted with the 20th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. Jaylon has been a key contributor for the Cavaliers, particularly on the defensive end, and is setting an example for his younger brother Jordyn.

Jordyn Tyson

Jaylon's younger brother, who is a wide receiver at Arizona State University and is preparing for the upcoming 2023 NFL Draft. Jordyn is hoping to be selected in the first round, potentially by the Cleveland Browns, who hold the 6th overall pick.

Cade Cunningham

An MVP candidate for the Detroit Pistons, who Jaylon Tyson has been tasked with defending in recent matchups between the Cavaliers and Pistons.

Donovan Mitchell

A perennial All-Star for the Cleveland Cavaliers, who has been a mentor to Jaylon Tyson and has helped him navigate the mental challenges of the NBA.

Kenny Atkinson

The head coach of the Cleveland Cavaliers, who has praised Jaylon Tyson's defensive abilities and his value as a secondary elite wing defender.

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What they’re saying

“I wanted to put on a show. He was here with a couple of the Browns guys, so I wanted to show them kind of that grit, kind of like how the Tyson family was raised and how we're built.”

— Jaylon Tyson, Cavaliers Guard (cleveland.com)

“It's a blessing. It's amazing to see. I was around him when people were doubting him, sleeping on him, cutting him from basketball teams. So just to see him continue to work and not let nobody's opinion ever deter him away from what he really wants is amazing to see.”

— Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State Wide Receiver (cleveland.com)

“If Jaylon can get to that point for us [as a primary stopper], or be that second guy, which he's proven he can do that — but I do think Jaylon loves when he's the guy doing it, right? Like, he's the main guy doing it.”

— Kenny Atkinson, Cavaliers Head Coach (cleveland.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

The Tyson brothers' journey represents the power of sibling rivalry and support, as they look to turn their backyard competition into a shared professional stage in the city of Cleveland. Their story highlights the challenges and triumphs of pursuing a career in professional sports, and the importance of mental toughness and perseverance in achieving one's dreams.