Moro Ojomo: From Lagos Street to NFL Super Bowl Champion

A Nigerian Dream Fulfilled
The 2024/25 NFL season culminated in a Super Bowl LIX rematch, with the Philadelphia Eagles defeating the Kansas City Chiefs 40-22. For Nigerian-born Morotoluwa Ojomo, affectionately known as Moro Ojomo, this victory was a double triumph, following his first career sack just weeks prior.

From Lagos to NFL Glory
Ojomo’s path to the NFL is a story of resilience and hard work. Born in Lagos, Nigeria, he moved to California at age seven. His family later settled in Texas, where his father became a pastor. Despite starting football relatively late, Ojomo’s physical gifts quickly impressed coaches at Katy High School.

Read Also: Sanwo-Olu congratulates Nigerian-born Moro Ojomo on Super Bowl victory

High School Success and Texas Standout
Initially a backup, Ojomo’s dedication earned him a varsity starting spot by his junior year. As a senior, he received All-State honours and a scholarship to the University of Texas. He redshirted his freshman year but became a key player by 2020. Over five seasons, he recorded 95 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, and 5 sacks, earning Academic All-Big 12 honours four times.

Draft Day and Rookie Season
Despite his college success, NFL scouts overlooked him due to inconsistent stats. He was drafted 249th overall by the Philadelphia Eagles in the seventh round of the 2023 NFL Draft, signing a four-year, $3.9 million rookie contract. He impressed coaches with his work ethic and technique. In his rookie season, he became a rotational defensive tackle, recording 20 tackles and 0.5 sacks. His playoff sack against the Los Angeles Rams cemented his role in the Eagles’ Super Bowl run.

College Career and NFL Draft
Ojomo’s college career at Texas saw him progress from a redshirt freshman to a full-time starter, earning Honorable Mention All-Big 12 honours in 2021. In 2022, he achieved career highs in tackles, tackles for loss, and sacks. Concerns about his size and pass-rush technique caused his draft stock to fall.

NFL Performance and Player Profile
Ojomo primarily serves as a rotational defensive tackle, contributing to both run defence and pass rush. His versatility allows him to line up in various positions. In Madden NFL 25, he has an overall rating of 70, highlighting his strength and tackling ability.

Injuries
Ojomo has dealt with injuries, including a concussion in the preseason and a hip injury during the regular season. His rookie contract includes a guaranteed signing bonus and escalating base salaries.

Off-Field Contributions and Leadership

At the NFL Combine, Ojomo showcased his athleticism. During his time in Texas, he was involved in student-athlete advocacy and leadership.
Served on the University of Texas’ Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC).
Advocated for student-athlete welfare and team culture.
Briefly faced a media ban in 2022 for outspoken views on team leadership.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu Message
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu congratulated Moro Ojomo on his Super Bowl LIX victory.
“Congratulations to Morotoluwa Ojomo, @MoroOjomo, a proud Lagos-born talent, for becoming a Super Bowl Champion with the Philadelphia Eagles! Your journey from Lagos to the NFL exemplifies resilience, determination, and unmatched talent,” Sanwo-Olu wrote on his X account. “You’ve made Lagos and Nigeria proud on the global stage. As you continue to shine on and off the field, know that Lagos stands proudly with you. Your achievements inspire countless others, proving that Lagosians’ potential is limitless. Here’s to even greater victories ahead. #SuperBowlLIX”

U.S Mission Congratulates Ojomo
The United States Diplomatic Mission Nigeria also congratulated Ojomo on his Super Bowl LIX milestone. “Congratulations to @MoroOjomo, the defensive tackle born in Lagos, on becoming a Super Bowl champion with the Philadelphia @Eagles! Your journey from Nigeria to the NFL is a testament to determination and talent, and you’ve made both the United States and Nigeria proud. Here’s to your continued success on and off the field. #SuperBowlLIX.”

Looking Ahead
With his rookie season complete, Moro Ojomo has established himself as a rising star in the NFL. As the Eagles celebrate their Super Bowl LIX victory, Ojomo’s journey from Lagos to the pinnacle of American football serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes worldwide.