Olamide Zaccheaus

Olamide Zaccheaus's Biography

Olamide Zaccheaus, born on July 23, 1997, has carved a niche for himself as a prominent figure in American professional football. His journey in the sport began at an early age in Plainfield, New Jersey, where he was born. At the age of seven, Olamide moved to Magnolia, New Jersey, in Camden County. His thirst for football saw him play at a high school level at St. Joseph’s Preparatory School situated in Philadelphia.

His consistent effort and talent molded him into a stellar player, eventually leading him to the University of Virginia, where he played for the Virginia Cavaliers for four years. His junior year saw him catch 85 passes moving across 895 yards, aiding in scoring five touchdowns. In recognition of his outstanding performance, Olamide was awarded second team All-Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).

With time Olamide improved, refining his skills with every game. In his senior year, he led the ACC with 93 receptions, covering 1,058 yards and scoring nine touchdowns. Once again, his efforts were recognized and he was named first team All-ACC.

Olamide’s most notable achievement as a Cavalier was undoubtedly his participation in the 2018 Belk Bowl. He went out with a bang, earning the title of ‘Most Valuable Player’ in his final game as a Cavalier. Representing 12 receptions for 100 yards receiving alongside three touchdowns, his performance is etched in Cavalier history.

Over his collegiate career, Olamide played a total of 50 games during which he made 250 receptions for 2,753 yards, along with 22 touchdowns. He also displayed his rushing ability, racking up 79 rushes for 551 yards and two touchdowns.

Entering the professional realm, Zaccheaus joined the Atlanta Falcons as an undrafted free agent on April 27, 2019. His debut in the NFL was on October 13, 2019, against the Arizona Cardinals. A significant moment in his career happened against the Carolina Panthers, where he recorded his first reception in the NFL – a virtuoso 93-yard touchdown pass from Matt Ryan. With this, he etched his name in the Falcons’ franchise history and set an NFL record for the longest first catch.

Other notable highlights from his time with the Falcons came during the 2020 season. In Week 9, playing against the Denver Broncos, Zaccheaus recorded his first 100-yard game, featuring four receptions for 103 receiving yards and a touchdown. He completed the season with 20 receptions for 274 yards and one touchdown across 11 games.

The 2021 season saw him achieve a career-high of two touchdowns against the, New Orleans Saints alongside three receptions for 58 yards. He ended the season with 31 receptions for 406 yards and three touchdowns. Zaccheaus remained with the Falcons until 2023, finishing his last season there with 40 receptions, 533 receiving yards, and three receiving touchdowns.

The Philadelphia Eagles became his new home on April 20, 2023, when he signed a one-year deal. There, he kept his reputation intact, wrapping up the season with 10 receptions for 164 receiving yards and 2 touchdowns.

As of April 1, 2024, Zaccheaus has been with the Washington Commanders, bringing his experience, expertise, and passion for the sport to the team. With a strong track record behind him, Olamide Zaccheaus continues to contribute to American professional football as he moves forward, one touchdown at a time.