Omar Speights

Omar Speights's Biography

Omar Speights — born on March 2, 2001 — is an American professional football linebacker currently playing for the Los Angeles Rams in the National Football League (NFL). The Philadelphia native’s journey from high school athlete to professional football player is a story of resilience, dedication, and natural talent.

Speights grew up in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where he made his mark as a high school football player at Northeast High School. However, a tragedy in his senior year marked a significant turn in his life. The horrific murder of his friend Kristian Marche forced him to change schools, moving Speights across the country to finish his high school career at Crescent Valley High School in Corvallis, Oregon. Despite these upheavals, he remained focused on his passion for the game, showcasing his athletic skills that would eventually lead to his collegiate and professional success.

Scouted as a four-star recruit, Speights made the decision to commit to Oregon State University, kick-starting his notable college football journey. During his fresher year in 2019, the young linebacker garnered 71 total tackles, 3.5 sacks, and an interception, earning him the honor of Freshman All-American. His performance remained consistent in his second year where he recorded 63 tackles and led the team with 4.5 tackles for loss.

By 2022, Speights had continued to break through new heights, earning the First-team All-Pac-12 acclaim after a remarkable season total of 83 tackles. However, as the year ended, he announced his intention to enter the transfer portal. Over his four seasons with Oregon State, Speights accomplished 308 total tackles, five sacks, three interceptions, and three fumble recoveries. His impressive record placed him ninth in school history for most tackles in a career, solidifying his legacy at Oregon State University.

In January 2023, the talented linebacker announced a significant change in his journey, declaring his decision to transfer to Louisiana State University, eager to play for the LSU Tigers. His subsequent performances continued to epitomize his abilities, further solidifying his reputation as a force to be reckoned with on the football field.

Speights’ college football success inevitably attracted the attention of professional scouts. His commitment to the sport and undeniable talent paid off when he signed with the Los Angeles Rams as an undrafted free agent on May 2, 2024. Making the Rams’ 53 man roster out of training camp as an undrafted free agent was a testament to his abilities and an affirmation of his dedication to the sport.

In conclusion, despite a challenging journey rife with personal and professional upheavals, Speights’ trajectory from the high school football fields of Philadelphia to the stadiums of the NFL serves as a testament to his resilience, focus, and immense talent. As he currently serves as a linebacker for the Los Angeles Rams, there’s little doubt that the future promises more success for this exceptional athlete.