Alijah Vera-Tucker

Alijah Vera-Tucker's Biography

Solomon Alijah Lewis Vera-Tucker, known widely as Vera-Tucker, was born on June 17, 1999. An American football player with a compelling career, he has undoubtedly made his mark on the sport. He is currently a professional football guard for the New York Jets in the National Football League (NFL). His journey from a zealous teenager to a recognized NFL player champions his undeniable dedication and talent for American football.

Born and raised in Oakland, California, Vera-Tucker’s athletic prowess was evident from his high school days at Bishop O’Dowd. Excelling as an offensive tackle and defensive end on the school’s football team, his senior year accomplishments let him be remembered as an Under Armour All-American. Staying true to his four-star recruit status, he exhibited a high level of dedication and commitment towards football. Several university offers came his way, from prestigious institutions like Washington, Oregon, Arizona, Arizona State, California, UCLA, and Washington State. However, Vera-Tucker made the significant decision to commit to USC.

He redshirted his freshman season, and it was during his redshirt freshman season that he solidified his position in football. He played in all 12 of USC’s games as a reserve guard and on special teams. His impeccable performance granted him the first-team All-Pac-12 Conference title by the Associated Press. Vera-Tucker was briefly uncertain about his future in American football, contemplating entering the 2020 NFL draft. Yet, he chose to stick around for his junior season at USC.

Vera-Tucker’s career took a temporary pause when Pac-12 announced the postponement of the 2020 season. Choosing to opt-out of the season initially, Vera-Tucker planned to spend time preparing for the 2021 NFL draft. His decision was quickly reversed when the Pac-12 returned to their fall football schedule.

Vera-Tucker’s commitment to football got the recognition it deserved when, in 2021, the New York Jets selected him in the first round of the NFL draft as the 14th overall pick. Signing his four-year rookie contract on July 20, 2021, fetching him a whopping $15.88 million, he started securing his position on the team. He played as the Jets’ starting left guard in 16 games, earning recognition in the PFWA All-Rookie Team.

The 2022 season saw a shift in roles. The signing of Laken Tomlinson by the Jets had Vera-Tucker positioned as the starting right guard. He went on to play as a left tackle in Week 4 due to an injury to George Fant. Further injuries led him to secure the position of right tackle. However, in Week 7, a torn triceps incident had him placed on injury reserve.

In 2023, Vera-Tucker returned, re-assuming his role as the starting right guard. He then moved to right tackle due to some injuries in the team. Unfortunately, in Week 5, he suffered an Achilles injury which placed him back on the injury reserve list.

His journey, filled with flickering moments of trial and success, led him to a momentous milestone. The New York Jets, on April 30, 2024, decided to retain their champion, deciding to pick up the fifth-year option on Vera-Tucker’s contract. This move re-affirmed that Vera-Tucker’s journey in the sport was far from over, marking yet another exciting chapter in his professional American football career.