Oshane Ximines

BIOGRAPHY

Oshane Ximines, born on December 7, 1996, has made a name for himself as a notable professional linebacker in the National Football League (NFL), currently playing for the New England Patriots. His journey to professional football began early in high school and has seen him achieve some incredible milestones. Ximines’ road to the NFL has been a path of dedication and determination, fortified by a robust playing strategy and resilient spirit.

Ximines’ formative years were spent in Ahoskie, North Carolina, where he attended Hertford County High School. Even as a young player, Ximines showed considerable potential as a footballer. His high school career distinguished by an impressive 145 tackles and 35 sacks, establishing him as a player to watch.

His outstanding achievements in high school football caught the attention of the Old Dominion University, where Ximines made a commitment to play college football. Still, his journey was not just about football; alongside his sports commitment, Ximines shouldered the hopes and aspirations of a family that immigrated from Jamaica before his birth.

While at Old Dominion, between 2014 and 2018, Ximines honed his skills as a defensive end. His college career saw another impressive tally of 176 tackles, 32.5 sacks, and an interception, exposing not only his innate talent but also a relentless drive to succeed.

His breakthrough came in 2019, when Ximines was drafted by the New York Giants in the third round of the NFL draft as the 95th overall pick. The outstanding achievement made him the first player from Old Dominion ever to be drafted into the NFL. This selection was part of a deal that saw Odell Beckham Jr. and Olivier Vernon transferred to the Cleveland Browns.

Ximines quickly established himself as a valuable member of the team. In Week 3 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, he recorded his first career sack, besting Jameis Winston in a close 32-31 win. Later in the season, against the Philadelphia Eagles, Ximines showcased his talents by sacking Carson Wentz twice during a high-stakes game, despite the 23-17 overtime loss. This notable performance led to a position switch for Ximines, moving from defensive end to outside linebacker.

Ximines’ career trajectory, however, hasn’t been without setbacks. He began the 2020 season as one of the Giants’ starting pass rushers but suffered a shoulder injury that put him on the injured reserves list. Although he was cleared to return and began practicing with the team again, he ultimately had to undergo season-ending shoulder surgery.

Despite these challenges, Ximines persevered and continued to contribute to the team. In the 2021 season, he played a rotational role, averaging 23 snaps per game. One memorable moment that season was during the Week 8 matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs, where he made a pivotal play that ultimately nullified a fourth-quarter interception.

The following year, Ximines faced further adversity with a hamstring issue that lingered for most of the summer and had him starting the training camp on the physically unable to perform list. However, he showcased resilience during the 2022 season by logging 506 total snaps, 24 tackles, 2 sacks, 1 forced fumble, and 1 fumble recovery.

The Giants re-signed Ximines on May 5, 2023, but he was released later in August, then re-signed to the practice squad. His stint with the Giants ended on November 30, paving the way for his move to the New England Patriots on April 30, 2024. His journey with the Patriots started off rocky, with Ximines being placed on the injured reserve list. His road to the NFL has been a roller-coaster of triumphs and setbacks, a testament of his resilience, determination, and undeniable talent.