I was No. 11 Draft pick for Jets – celebrating that moment at home was special

OLU Fashanu revealed why he chose to spend the biggest moment of his football life at home.

The 21-year-old offensive tackle was selected No. 11 overall by the New York Jets in the 2024 NFL Draft.

3

Fashanu made the decision to hold a house party in Waldorf, Maryland, with his closest friends and family.

He opted to skip the NFL Draft festivities in Detroit, where most top prospects headed.

“It felt like a dream to have a moment like that surrounded with all my family and friends,” he told The U.S. Sun.

“I always knew I was going to celebrate the draft at home with the people closest to me, my support system, family, and close friends.

“To have them all show out for my special night, it meant a lot that they were able to make it.

“It was a very special moment and one I’ll never forget.”

Fashanu received a long hug from his mom after his NFL dream was realized.

But the former Penn State offensive lineman knows the hard work is only just beginning.

“My parents had a huge impact on my career,” he said.

“They made so many sacrifices to help get me to a position where I’m at.

“For me to go out the last four years, play for Penn State and also graduate and make it to this moment, being fortunate enough to get drafted to a team like the Jets, it just meant the world for them.

“It’s the least I could give back for all the sacrifice they’ve made for me.

“But getting drafted was never the destination, it was just a stop along the journey.

“It was a great night getting to embrace all my family and friends but I understand I’m here now and I’m back to work.”

Fashanu’s work includes protecting one of the game’s greats: Aaron Rodgers.

My parents made so many sacrifices to help get me to a position where I’m at. This is the least I could give back for all the sacrifice they’ve made for me

Olu Fashanu on being drafted

He also has to live up to the pressure of being a high draft pick and trying to win a starting role.

“I’m very consistent,” he said.

“Every play, no matter what the down and distance is, no matter what the situation, I’m always going to go out and do my job to the best of my ability.

“I’m going to just put my head down and work and embrace every single day, take it all in.

“I feel like I’m in a very unique situation where I get to learn from a very experienced room so I’m going to take it day by day and make the most out of it.”

To keep updated on the latest New York Jets news and to hear about their upcoming activities, please visit www.newyorkjets.com and www.nyjetsinuk.com.

Follow them on social platforms @NYJets and @NYJetsinUK on X and @nyjets and @newyorkjetsinuk on Instagram.

3