40 Facts About Olu Fashanu

Early Life and Heritage

Olu Fashanu's journey to the NFL is rooted in his early life and heritage. His upbringing in Maryland and his Nigerian roots have significantly influenced his path.

1. Birth and Heritage: Olu Fashanu was born on December 9, 2002, in Waldorf, Maryland. He is of Yoruba heritage, reflecting his Nigerian roots.
2. Early Life: Growing up in Maryland, Fashanu was exposed to various sports from an early age. His father, Anthony, played a significant role in shaping his athletic career.
3. Father's Influence: Fashanu’s father, Anthony, instilled in him the motto, "Anything worth doing is worth doing well," which has guided him throughout his athletic career.
4. Mother’s Support: His mother, Paige, also provided significant support throughout his athletic career, helping him stay focused on his goals.

High School Career

Olu's high school years at Gonzaga College High School were pivotal in his development as an athlete. Here, he honed his skills and prepared for college football.

5. High School Education: Fashanu attended Gonzaga College High School in Washington, D.C., where he was a four-star prospect in football.
6. High School Basketball: Before football, Fashanu played basketball all his life. His transition to football was facilitated by his father's guidance.
7. High School Basketball Success: At Gonzaga College High School, Fashanu was an accomplished basketball player, which prepared him well for the demands of college football.
8. Collaboration with Caleb Williams: During high school, Fashanu protected quarterback Caleb Williams, who later became the first overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft by the Chicago Bears.

College Football at Penn State

Fashanu's time at Penn State University was marked by significant achievements and growth. His college career laid the foundation for his professional journey.

9. College Football: At Penn State University, Fashanu initially did not play his true freshman year in 2020. He made his debut in the 2021 season and gradually became a starter by the 2022 season.
10. Sophomore Season: In his sophomore year, Fashanu made one start in the 2022 New Year's Day Outback Bowl, setting the stage for his future success.
11. Junior Season: During the 2022 season, Fashanu made eight starts at left tackle before sustaining a season-ending injury.
12. Senior Season: In his final season at Penn State, Fashanu was named a team captain at the end of spring practice. He started 12 games and allowed no sacks in 382 pass-blocking snaps.
13. College Accolades: Fashanu earned consensus All-American honors in 2023 and was named the Big Ten's Rimington–Pace Offensive Lineman of the Year.
14. College Statistics: In his final season, Fashanu started 12 games and allowed no sacks in 382 pass-blocking snaps, contributing significantly to his All-American recognition.

Community Involvement and Academic Achievements

Olu's commitment to community service and academic excellence sets him apart. His dedication extends beyond the football field.

15. Community Involvement: Fashanu volunteered daily at a homeless shelter near Penn State University, reflecting his Jesuit high school's emphasis on service to others.
16. Academic Achievements: Fashanu earned a berth on the William V. Campbell Trophy watchlist and was a finalist for the Campbell award, often referred to as the "Academic Heisman."
17. Volunteer Work: His daily volunteering at a homeless shelter demonstrates his strong community instinct and commitment to service.

NFL Draft and Professional Career

Olu Fashanu's transition to the NFL marks a significant milestone in his career. His selection by the New York Jets is a testament to his hard work and talent.

18. Draft Selection: In the 2024 NFL draft, Fashanu was selected by the New York Jets with the 11th overall pick.
19. Professional Career: As an offensive tackle for the New York Jets, Fashanu is expected to contribute significantly to the team's offense.
20. Height and Weight: Fashanu stands at 6 feet 6 inches (1.98 meters) and weighs 312 pounds (142 kilograms), ideal for an offensive tackle in the NFL.
21. NFL Combine Statistics: At the NFL Combine, Fashanu recorded impressive statistics, including a 40-yard dash time of 5.11 seconds and a vertical jump of 32.0 inches.
22. Pre-Draft Visit with Jets: During his predraft visit with the Jets, Fashanu expressed excitement about potentially playing with Aaron Rodgers.
23. Post-Draft Reaction: After being drafted, Fashanu confirmed that working with Aaron Rodgers was a dream come true.
24. Collaboration with Veteran Tackles: Post-draft, Fashanu began collaborating with veteran tackles Tyron Smith and Morgan Moses to enhance his skills.

Personal Values and Aspirations

Olu Fashanu's personal values and aspirations drive his success. His dedication to excellence and community service reflects his strong character.

25. Motto and Motivation: Fashanu’s motto, "Anything worth doing is worth doing well," was instilled by his father and guides his athletic career.
26. Jesuit Education: Gonzaga College High School emphasized blending education with conscience, preparing Fashanu for college success and lives of integrity, purpose, and service to others.
27. Professional Aspirations: As an offensive tackle for the New York Jets, Fashanu aims to contribute significantly to the team’s offense and make a lasting impact in the NFL.
28. Family Influence: Fashanu’s father and mother played crucial roles in shaping his athletic career, providing guidance and support.
29. Mother’s Influence: His mother, Paige, also played a significant role in shaping his athletic career, helping him stay focused on his goals.

Achievements and Recognition

Olu Fashanu's achievements and recognition highlight his talent and dedication. His accolades reflect his hard work and commitment to excellence.

30. College Accolades: Fashanu earned consensus All-American honors in 2023 and was named the Big Ten's Rimington–Pace Offensive Lineman of the Year.
31. College Statistics: In his final season, Fashanu started 12 games and allowed no sacks in 382 pass-blocking snaps, contributing significantly to his All-American recognition.
32. Academic Recognition: Fashanu’s academic achievements are noteworthy, earning a berth on the William V. Campbell Trophy watchlist and being a finalist for the Campbell award.
33. Community Service: His commitment to community service is evident through his daily volunteering at a homeless shelter near Penn State University.

Future Prospects

Olu Fashanu's future prospects in the NFL look promising. His skills, dedication, and strong work ethic position him for continued success.

34. Professional Growth: As an offensive tackle for the New York Jets, Fashanu is expected to continue growing professionally.
35. Collaboration with Aaron Rodgers: Fashanu started a collaboration with quarterback Aaron Rodgers, which is expected to be beneficial for both players.
36. Post-Draft Preparation: Before the draft, Fashanu underwent rigorous preparation to ensure readiness for the next level.
37. Post-Draft Excitement: After being drafted by the Jets, Fashanu expressed excitement about joining the team and working with Aaron Rodgers.
38. Father’s Motto: Fashanu’s father’s motto “Anything worth doing is worth doing well” has been a guiding principle throughout his athletic career.
39. Mother’s Influence: Fashanu’s mother, Paige, also played a significant role in shaping his athletic career, helping him stay focused on his goals.
40. Jesuit Education: Gonzaga College High School emphasized blending education with conscience, preparing Fashanu for college success and lives of integrity, purpose, and service to others.

Olu Fashanu's Remarkable Journey

Olu Fashanu's path from Waldorf, Maryland to the New York Jets showcases his dedication, talent, and community spirit. From his early days at Gonzaga College High School to earning All-American honors at Penn State, Olu's hard work paid off. His impressive stats, like allowing no sacks in 382 pass-blocking snaps, highlight his skill on the field.

Beyond football, Olu's commitment to community service, like volunteering at a homeless shelter, reflects his strong values. His academic achievements, including being a finalist for the Campbell Trophy, show his dedication to excellence in all areas.

Drafted 11th overall by the Jets, Olu's collaboration with veteran players and Aaron Rodgers promises a bright future. With his strong work ethic and support from his family, Olu Fashanu is set to make a lasting impact in the NFL.