Jer'Zhan Newton

Jer'Zhan Newton, a promising defensive tackle, made his entry into the NFL as a member of the Washington Commanders. Born on August 31, 2002, in St. Petersburg, Florida, Newton carved his path to professional football through an impressive college career at Illinois. Standing 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighing 295 pounds, Newton's physical prowess and technique on the field caught the attention of scouts leading to his selection in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft, with the 36th overall pick by the Commanders. Before his transition to the NFL, Newton honed his skills at Clearwater Central Catholic High School, showcasing his potential early on. At Illinois, competing in the Big Ten Conference, he developed a reputation for his defensive capabilities, culminating in his drafting into the NFL. In his rookie season, Newton's stats began to reflect his contribution to the Commanders' defense, recording 2 sacks, 25 assists, and 44 combined tackles in the regular season. He also demonstrated a knack for disrupting plays, with 6 tackles for loss totaling 18 yards, 7 quarterback hits, and a forced fumble, underlining his ability to make critical plays. Newton's on-field performance in his debut season, including his participation in 16 games with 11 starts, not only shows his immediate impact but also hints at his potential growth in the NFL. His defensive skills, characterized by his ability to pressure the quarterback and his defensive intelligence, signal a promising career ahead. As Newton continues to adapt and evolve in the professional arena, his early achievements suggest he is a player to watch in the coming seasons.