Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Jeff Okudah
Discover the career path of Jeff Okudah, from the first major opportunity to industry-changing achievements.
Jeff Okudah is an American football cornerback currently playing for the Houston Texans in the NFL. He was a standout college player at Ohio State, earning unanimous All-American honors in 2019. Okudah was then drafted third overall by the Detroit Lions in the 2020 NFL Draft, highlighting his exceptional talent and potential in the sport.
January 2017: Commitment to Ohio State
In January 2017, Jeff Okudah committed to Ohio State University.
2017: Freshman Season
In 2017, as a true freshman at Ohio State, Jeff Okudah played in all 14 games and had 17 tackles.
2018: Sophomore Season
In 2018, Jeff Okudah played in 13 games as a sophomore, recording 32 tackles.
2019: Junior Season and Accolades
In 2019, Jeff Okudah recorded his first career interception, had 34 tackles, 9 passes defended, and 3 interceptions. He was named to the 2019 College Football All-America Team and was a finalist for the Jim Thorpe Award.
2019: All-American Selection
In 2019, Jeff Okudah was a unanimous All-American at Ohio State.
July 13, 2020: Signs with Detroit Lions
On July 13, 2020, Jeff Okudah signed his four-year rookie contract with the Detroit Lions, worth a fully guaranteed $33.528 million including a $21.944 million signing bonus.
2020: Declaration for NFL Draft
In 2020, Jeff Okudah decided to forgo his senior year by declaring for the NFL draft.
2020: NFL Draft
In 2020, Jeff Okudah was selected third overall in the NFL draft by the Detroit Lions.
2021: Achilles Injury
During the Lions' 2021 season opener, Jeff Okudah ruptured his Achilles tendon and was placed on injured reserve.
March 15, 2024: Signs with Houston Texans
On March 15, 2024, Jeff Okudah signed a one-year contract with the Houston Texans.
