OLU Fashanu has revealed why he chose to spend the biggest moment of his football life at home.
The 21-year-old offensive tackle was selected 11th overall by the New York Jets in the 2024 NFL Draft.
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Fashanu made the decision to hold a party in Waldorf, Maryland with his closest friends and family.
He opted to skip the NFL Draft festivities in Detroit, where most of the top prospects were headed.
“It felt like a dream to have a moment like that surrounded by all my family and friends,” he told The US Sun.
“I always knew I would celebrate the draft at home with the people closest to me, my support system, family and close friends.
“Having them all show up on my special night meant so much that they were able to attend.
“It was a very special moment and one that I will never forget.”
Fashanu received a long hug from his mother after his NFL dream was realized.
But the former Penn State offensive lineman knows the hard work is just beginning.
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“My parents had a huge impact on my career,” he said.
“They made so many sacrifices to help me get to the position I am in.
“For me, going out the last four years, playing for Penn State and also graduating and getting to this moment, being fortunate enough to be drafted by a team like the Jets, has meant a lot to them.
“It’s the least I can repay for all the sacrifice they made for me.
“But being drafted was never the destination, it was just a stop on the journey.
“It was a great night being able to hug all my family and friends, but I understand that I’m here now and back to work.”
Fashanu’s job includes protecting one of the game’s greats: Aaron Rodgers.
My parents made so many sacrifices to help me get to the position I am in. This is the least I could repay for all the sacrifice they made for me
Olu Fashanu on being called up
He also has to handle the pressure of being a high draft pick and trying to earn a starting role.
“I’m very consistent,” he said.
“On every play, no matter the down and the distance, no matter the situation, I’m always going to go out and do my job to the best of my ability.
“I’m just going to put my head down and work and hug every day, take it all in.
“I feel like I’m in a unique situation where I can learn in a very experienced room, so I’m going to take it day in and day out and make the most of it.”
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This story originally appeared on The-sun.com read the full story
