Julian Okwara

Julian Okwara's Biography

Julian Okwara, a seasoned linebacker in the National Football League (NFL), was born into Nigerian lineage on December 27, 1997. Today, he is recognized as a professional football player for the Arizona Cardinals. Having launched his career in the esteemed sport during his years at the University of Notre Dame, Julian has come a long way in his journey as a footballer. His time as a part of the Fighting Irish squad at Notre Dame reinforced his capabilities, setting the stage for the heights he was bound to reach in the NFL.

Intriguingly, Julian’s life began in London, as he was born while his mother was visiting family. His early years, however, were grounded in Nigeria, where he was raised in Lekki, Lagos. The opportunity to move to the United States came when he was in third grade and Julian relocated, ready to embrace fresh prospects.

Settling in North Carolina, he began his academic and athletic development at Ardrey Kell High School in Charlotte. His passion and aptitude for football led him to the University of Notre Dame, with a commitment to play throughout his college years. As an eager freshman in 2016, Julian managed to participate in 11 games and due to his meticulous performances, earned himself four tackles.

The following year, as a sophomore, Julian played in 12 out of 13 games, acquiring 17 tackles, 2.5 sacks and an impressive interception. In his junior year in 2018, he had an even more impressive run. Out of 13 competitive games, Julian started 12, demonstrating his skill through 38 tackles and eight sacks. Not only did he continue his commitment to Notre Dame for his concluding senior season in 2019, but also revived his football prowess, propelling himself towards the NFL draft.

The Detroit Lions, an acclaimed NFL team, recognized Julian’s talent and consequently, Julian was chosen as their 67th overall pick in the third round of the 2020 NFL draft. Subsequently, the Lions confirmed a four-year contract with Julian on June 9, 2020. Unfortunately, due to an unfortunate right leg injury during the sixth week, Julian had to be placed on injury reserve on October 21, 2020. He recovered and returned to his robust form by December 22, 2020.

2022 marked another prominent event of Julian’s life, when he was admitted to injured reserve on December 3, 2022. However, challenges surmounted as he was waived on January 18, 2024, but managed to rejoin the practice squad. Despite not being signed to a reserve/future contract, Julian became a free agent upon the expiration of his practice squad contract.

Undeterred by the hurdles, Julian joined the Philadelphia Eagles on February 14, 2024, although he was released that same year on August 26. Nevertheless, his journey was not over as Okwara tied up with the Arizona Cardinals on August 28, 2024, initially serving on their practice squad. By September 11, his work had won him a place on the active roster.

An interesting fact about Julian is that he is not alone in his passion for football. His older brother, Romeo Okwara, shares his love for the sport. Romeo, who has also played for the Notre Dame, made his way into the NFL, playing for the Lions, remarkably following a similar path to Julian’s own football career.