Former Notre Dame superstar could have his NFL career in jeopardy after latest injury news creates uncertain future

When you think of some of the favorite Notre Dame football players we have seen recently, very few were remembered as fondly as former All-American linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah. The fondly nicknamed “JOK” will be remembered for his tenacious style on the second level, and how he revolutionized the rover position for the Fighting Irish. During his two years as a starter for the defense, Owusu-Koramoah was able to collect 142 total tackles, 25 tackles for loss, seven sacks, one interception, seven pass breakups, and five forced fumbles. 

A heart issue caused Owusu-Koramoah to fall a bit during the 2021 NFL Draft, but ended up being selected in the second round by the Cleveland Browns. The 6-2, 221-pound versatile defender has outplayed that draft slot, and was selected to the Pro Bowl during the 2023 season. 

During that season, JOK turned in his best season in the NFL career so far. After being good, but injured some his first two years, Owusu-Koaramoah led the Browns with 101 total tackles and 20 tackles for loss. He also recorded 3.5 sacks, two interceptions, six pass breakups, and a forced fumble. That tackle for loss total was the highest of any linebacker in the league.

Owusu-Koramoah was gifted with a new contract for his efforts. He signed a 3-year, $37.5 million deal following that 2023 season. Along with star pass rusher Myles Garrett and cornerback Denzel Burke, Owusu-Koramoah was viewed as a part of the foundation of a very talented Browns defense under head coach Kevin Stefanski. Unfortunately, that future is now in question. 

Owusu-Koramoah had been off to a fast start this past season, collecting 61 total tackles, 10 tackles for loss, three sacks, and an interception in just eight games. A neck injury cut that great season short, and soon people were left wondering what Owusu-Koramoah's future us going to look like. After months of silence, we received an update on Monday. 

It was announced that Owusu-Koramoah was being placed by the Browns on the physically unable to perform list. That means that the talented linebacker will be out for the entirety of the 2025 NFL season.