Owen Pappoe

Owen Pappoe, an emerging linebacker for the Arizona Cardinals, has quickly made his mark in the NFL since his debut. Born on September 29, 2000, in Lawrenceville, Georgia, Pappoe's journey to professional football began at Grayson High School, a nurturing ground for his budding talent. Opting to play college football at Auburn, he showcased his skills in the Southeastern Conference, one of the premier conferences in college football, setting the stage for his entry into the NFL. Selected by the Cardinals in the 5th round of the 2023 NFL Draft with the 168th overall pick, Pappoe's transition from college to the professional ranks was highly anticipated. Standing at 6 feet tall and weighing 225 pounds, his athletic profile and college production hinted at a promising career ahead. Pappoe's rookie year was a developmental season, as is often the case with mid-round picks, but he showed flashes of the potential that Arizona saw in him during the draft. The 2024 NFL season saw Pappoe taking a more active role on defense as well as special teams. Over the course of 16 games, with one start, he compiled 20 combined tackles and contributed significantly on special teams. Notably, his defensive efforts included 13 solo tackles and 7 assists, highlighting his ability to be both a reliable tackler and a supportive team player. Pappoe's agility and speed allowed him to pressure the quarterback, evidenced by his 11 blitz attempts and 2 hurries, showcasing his versatility as a linebacker. Additionally, his knack for making impactful plays was on display as he forced a fumble and defended two passes, underscoring his defensive acumen and playmaking abilities. Despite being early in his professional career, Owen Pappoe's blend of athleticism, work ethic, and on-field intelligence positions him as a player to watch in the coming seasons. As he gains more experience and hones his skills, Pappoe is poised to become a key component of the Cardinals' defensive unit, with the potential to make significant contributions to their success.