Foye Oluokun
Summary
Foyesade Oluokun was selected in the 6th Round (#200 Overall) in the 2018 Draft out of Yale University. Oluokum is a high‑intelligence, high‑effort linebacker whose strengths lie in elite tackle production, versatility, leadership, and preparation. He stands out as a tackling machine and defensive glue‑guy. His main limitations center on elite coverage athleticism, big‑play disruption compared to the top tier, and perhaps the “wow” athletic traits some other linebackers possess. Nonetheless, his consistent production and ability to play many roles make him a valuable and reliable asset for his team’s defense.
Strengths
Exceptional tackling & production: Oluokun has consistently been among the league leaders in tackles. For example, he logged 192 total tackles in 2021, then 184 in 2022 (led the NFL) and 173 in 2023. He brings a high motor, shows up often around the ball, and has proven he can handle a heavy workload. Jacksonville Jaguars
Intelligence, preparation & leadership: His background (Yale) and football‑mindset have been highlighted: he studies opponents, anticipates plays, and organizes the defense. Go Long TD. He’s been voted a team captain and is viewed as a defensive leader with high football IQ. Jacksonville Jaguars
Versatility: run‑stop and blitz ability: Although his primary role is tackling and run support, he also generates quarterback hits and blitz pressure. He shows the ability to drop into coverage, blitz, support run defense, and serve as a three‑down inside linebacker.
Durability and consistency: From 2021 onward he has demonstrated consistent availability and productivity, which is notable given the physical demands of linebacker play.
Instincts & pursuit: He reacts quickly, takes solid pursuit angles, and his anticipation helps mitigate raw athletic disadvantages in some matchups. PlayerProfiler
Weaknesses
Coverage limitations, especially in space and deep zones: While he can cover tight ends and backs adequately, his top‑end speed, deep‑zone recovery, and ability to stick with faster receivers may be less than elite.
Explosive big‑play disruption (sacks/interceptions) is modest relative to other top linebackers: Oluokun’s is sack numbers and interception totals are not as high as some of the more disruptive linebackers in the league despite his high tackle volume.
Athleticism comparisons / physical ceiling: Despite his excellent preparation and technique, he lacks the elite raw athletic traits (e.g., blazing speed or overpowering strength) of some linebackers who dominate in space or on mismatches.
Less prominent as a flashy highlight player: Because many of his plays are “glue” plays (tackles, coverage adjustments, leadership) rather than obvious highlight sacks or pick prowess, he can be under‑appreciated, and recognition (e.g., top‑10 linebacker lists) has lagged his tackle numbers. Big Cat Country
Fit & Outlook
Oluokun is ideally suited for a defense that demands intelligence, tackling reliability, and versatility. A scheme that uses linebackers in multiple roles—run support, short/medium coverage, blitz—will maximize his value. If he continues to maintain his tackling volume, improve his coverage footwork and deep‑zone instincts, he can be a consistent and very good every‑down linebacker for years. While he may not become the flashiest linebacker with huge sack totals, his floor is high as a dependable cornerstone.