Frankie Luvu

Frankie Luvu's Biography

Frankie Luvu, born on September 19, 1996, in Tafuna, American Samoa, has made significant strides in his professional football career. The seasoned linebacker, presently doing active duty with the Washington Commanders in the National Football League (NFL), has a rich career history punctuated by steadfast performances and a drive for consistent improvement.

Of Samoan heritage, Luvu migrated to the United States in 2013. The youngest of eight children to Veresa, a former Fiji national rugby union team player, and Faaloiloia Luvu, Frankie transitioned into the American sporting scene with a college career at Washington State University. There, he showcased his thrilling football skills as a prominent player for the Washington State Cougars.

In 2018, Luvu’s abilities did not go unnoticed. Even as an undrafted free agent, he was snapped up by the New York Jets on May 4, 2018. Overcoming initial hiccups when he was waived on September 1, 2018, Luvu bounced back immediately. He was signed to the practice squad the very next day and swiftly promoted to the active roster just a week later, on September 8, 2018.

His journey with the Jets was not always smooth-sailing. On October 14, 2019, Luvu was waived again, only to be re-signed to the practice squad. However, his persistence eventually paid off. He was promoted to the active roster on November 1, 2019, and re-signed with the Jets on April 23, 2020. However, a groin injury on October 20, 2020, sidelined him, with him being put on injured reserve. Luvu, resilient as always, was back in action on November 21, 2020.

Looking for new pastures, Luvu signed with the Carolina Panthers on March 23, 2021. Carving a niche for himself as a backup linebacker and core member of the special teams, Luvu’s performance added considerable depth to the team. During the season, he participated in 16 games, starting in four, and demonstrated his all-round football skills with 43 tackles, 1.5 sacks, one forced fumble, three fumble recoveries, and a blocked punt.

His consistent performance earned him a two-year contract extension with the Panthers on February 17, 2022. Further cementing his reputation as a reliable linebacker, he recorded his first career interception and touchdown against NFL stalwart Kyler Murray during a game against the Arizona Cardinals on October 2, 2022.

Frankie Luvu played an essential role in the following season, being named NFC Defensive Player of the Week in Week 8 of 2023. His impressive game statistics included 12 tackles, two for a loss, two pass breakups, and a sack, marking him as an undeniable powerhouse on the field.

With his skills generating considerable attention, Luvu moved to the Washington Commanders on March 14, 2024, signing a lucrative three-year, $36 million contract. This shift accentuated his journey from American Samoa to the apex of American professional football.

Throughout his evolving career, Luvu has maintained a deep connection with his Samoan roots. His parents, both U.S. nationals based on the status of American Samoa, still reside in his homeland. They had the opportunity to attend their first NFL game in 2022. Meanwhile, Luvu, who became a naturalized U.S. citizen in August 2023, carries his heritage onto the field, as an inspiring instance of the successful blend of talent, hard work, and cultural pride.