From being a backup to now the starter safety for the Gators, Bryce Thornton has come a long way. A product of Milton High School, the 20-year-old has evolved from a talented freshman into one of the Gators’ defense’s dependable players. This season, he has accumulated 37 total tackles, with 21 of them being solo tackles and 16 assist tackles. While his performances and athleticism make headlines, the foundation of Bryce’s rise lies in the influence of his family.

Who are Bryce Thornton’s parents?

Bryce Thornton is the son of Bruce Thornton Sr. and Tiaunna Briggans. Two figures who have played important roles in his journey, both on and off the field. His father, Bruce Thornton Sr., formerly played as a cornerback for the Georgia Bulldogs in the early 2000s. After that, he went on to play in the NFL, with stints at the Dallas Cowboys and San Francisco 49ers. Experienced at the top level of the sport, Bruce Sr. provided his son with a firsthand understanding of what it takes to succeed in football. Similarly, even Bryce Thornton’s mother had an athletic background.

His mother, Tiaunna, also has her roots in Georgia, playing basketball for the Bulldogs. She has been the cornerstone for Bryce Thornton, who has publicly talked about his mother helping him get through hard situations. They didn’t make it easy,” he told the Columbus (Ohio) Dispatch. “They didn’t allow me to win no games, nothing, so I had to earn it.”

Where did Bruce Thornton Sr and Tiaunna Briggans meet?

While there are no public records or confirmation that indicate the specific place where the couple met. Both Bruce Thornton Sr and Tiaunna Briggans were athletes for the Georgia Bulldogs. The two likely met during their time in Georgia. Together, they’ve created a home built on structure, respect, and ambition in sports, values that are clearly reflected in their sons, Bryce and Bruce Thornton.

What ethnicity are Bryce Thornton’s parents?

Both Bruce Thornton Sr. and Tiaunna Briggans are African American. The Thorntons’ presence represents the continuing legacy of African American athletes and families who have shaped the University of Georgia’s heritage, from Herschel Walker’s era to today’s generation of defensive standouts like Bryce.

Inside Bryce Thornton’s Relationship with His Parents

Growing up in a household deeply rooted in sports, Bryce developed a close relationship with both of his parents. Bruce Sr. and Tiaunna Briggans served as mentors throughout his upbringing, each shaping different sides of his development. Coaches at Milton High have even credited Bruce Sr. for providing steady guidance while allowing Bryce the freedom to build his own identity as a player. He called his mother after every bad practice or a performance that got under his skin.

“My mom really helped me with this whole process,’‘ said Bryce on his mother’s influence on his career. He was never forced to join Georgia, and he was allowed to join Florida, which speaks to his relationship with his parents. “My mom and dad were always making sure, ‘Whatever is best for you.’ So, I’m really glad that my two parents led me that way. Florida just felt like home,” said Bryce. He would be grateful to his parents for letting him choose his own path, which has seen a big rise in 2025.