Julian Okwara


Julian Okwara is an American football defensive end for the Detroit Lions of the National Football League. He played college football at Notre Dame.

Early years

Okwara was born in London while his mother was visiting family, but raised in Nigeria. Okwara lived in Lagos and was raised in Lekki before moving to the United States when he was in the third grade. He attended Ardrey Kell High School in Charlotte, North Carolina. He committed to the University of Notre Dame to play college football.

College career

As a true freshman at Notre Dame in 2016, he played in 11 games, recording four tackles. As a sophomore in 2017, he played in 12 of 13 games, recording 17 tackles, 2.5 sacks and an interception. As a junior in 2018, he started 12 of 13 games, finishing with 38 tackles and eight sacks. Okwara returned to Notre Dame for his senior season in 2019.

Professional career

The Detroit Lions selected Okwara in Round 3 with the 67th overall pick of the 2020 NFL draft.

Personal life

Okwara's older brother, Romeo Okwara, also played college football at Notre Dame and also currently plays in the NFL for the Detroit Lions.