What Do We Know About Jesse Luketa?

South Ottawa-born linebacker/defensive end for the Penn State Nittany Lions, Jesse Luketa, has declared for the NFL draft. Jesse spent 4 years at Penn State improving every season stat-wise, building his draft stock.

Before playing in the Outback Bowl, Luketa put out a tweet declaring for the 2022 NFL draft and that he’s accepted his invitation to participate in the Reese’s Senior Bowl on February 5^th. In 2021, 106 players who went to the Senior Bowl were drafted, and 36 went in the top 3 rounds.

Following the Senior Bowl, Jesse will then be a part of the NFL Combine in Indianapolis from March 1^st-7^th, and then the 2022 NFL draft, which runs April 28^th-30^th.

So what do we know about the South Ottawa defender? Here are 5 fun facts about Jesse Luketa:

• The 6’3 – 251 LB/DE had 151 total tackles, .5 sacks, 1 fumble recovery and an interception returned for a touchdown in 4 seasons at Penn State. He played in 38 games – twice competing in bowl games, winning one (2019 Cotton Bowl).

• Jesse grew up speaking 3 languages: English, French and Lingala (Bantu language spoken in the Democratic Republic of the Congo).

• He’s the youngest of 8 siblings (5 sisters and 2 brothers).

• Close friends and grew up with Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Neville Gallimore (3^rdround draft pick in 2020). He’s also best friends and former roommates with Cowboys rookie pass rusher Micah Parsons.

• His favourite food place to eat when he’s in Ottawa is The WORKS.

According to The Draft Network, Jesse currently has a 3rd round draft grade and can certainly improve with solid outings at the Senior Bowl and Combine. We reached out to Jesse for a comment, and this is what he has to say:

“Throughout my journey, I’ve been blessed to have a strong ‘village’ of supporters. Without them believing in my aspirations, none of this would have been possible to come to fruition. I’m a firm believer in manifestation and speaking things to existence. To the young kids around the world and particularly South Ottawa, never allow anyone to belittle your dreams & aspirations because I’m proof that no dream is too far unattainable. Be uncommon!” – Jesse Luketa. @OttawasVeryOwn

By Steve Bunda