Tommy Akingbesote’s football journey so far is a story of perseverance, development, and steady rise
From his early days at Charles Herbert Flowers High School to starting all 12 games in his final year at Maryland, and then earning a Combine invite, he has consistently proven doubters wrong and exceeded expectations.
While his path to NFL stardom won’t be guaranteed — as it rarely is for any player — his strong foundation, high football IQ, and relentless drive make him a player to watch.
Teams that value toughness and discipline will see the true value Tommy Akingbesote brings to the table.
Understanding Tommy Akingbesote’s parents — Arinola Folashade Afuye Akingbesote and Odunmorayo Jackson Akingbesote — gives us a deeper appreciation for the powerful influences behind this promising young man.
Their story is one of perseverance, cultural pride, and an unyielding commitment to family and education.
Tommy’s upbringing is a beautiful example of how immigrant families pass on their dreams, traditions, and resilience to the next generation.
And with parents like Arinola and Jackson behind him, there is no doubt that Tommy will continue to rise and inspire those around him.
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Table of Contents
Tommy Akingbesote: Who Is He?
The Rise of a Relentless Defensive Force
Before Tommy Akingbesote made a name for himself on the collegiate football stage, he honed his skills at Charles Herbert Flowers High School in Maryland.1
Akingbesote quickly became a standout defensive presence at the high school level, showcasing a natural ability to read plays, penetrate offensive lines, and deliver crushing tackles.
His raw strength, combined with excellent footwork for a player of his size, attracted attention from several college programs, but ultimately, it was the University of Maryland that secured his commitment.
Early Days at Charles Herbert Flowers High School
In 2021, Tommy Akingbesote officially began his college football journey with the Maryland Terrapins.
The transition from high school to college competition can be daunting, but Akingbesote showed promise from the beginning.
Although his first two seasons involved limited playing time, each appearance reflected his growth, improved technique, and increasing comfort against higher-caliber opponents.
Coaches praised his work ethic and dedication, noting how Akingbesote spent countless hours studying game film and refining his defensive line techniques. His ability to absorb coaching and implement feedback set him apart from many of his peers.
Tommy Akingbesote: Career
Breakout Season: A Dominant 2024 Campaign
The 2024 season marked a significant turning point in Akingbesote’s career.
Trusted as a starter for all 12 games, he finally had the platform to showcase his skills on a full-time basis. His consistency, toughness, and leadership were evident throughout the season.
One of his standout performances came on September 21 against Villanova, where Akingbesote recorded a career-high 2.0 tackles for loss (TFL) and added a crucial sack.
This game was emblematic of his season-long impact: not just accumulating stats, but disrupting plays and setting the tone for Maryland’s defensive front.
His efforts did not go unnoticed. Akingbesote earned a spot on the prestigious 2024 Shrine Bowl 1000 Watchlist, highlighting him as one of the top prospects heading toward a potential professional career.
NFL Combine: Making His Mark on the Big Stage
Following the conclusion of his collegiate career, Tommy Akingbesote received an invitation to the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine — a testament to his development and potential.
Only 329 prospects are invited to the Combine each year, making it a significant accomplishment in itself.
At the Combine, Akingbesote posted solid athletic numbers:
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40-yard dash: 5.09 seconds
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10-yard split: 1.77 seconds
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Overall Score: 61
While not the flashiest numbers compared to some lighter or more agile defensive linemen, his performance was respectable, especially for his role as a space-eating tackle.
His 24th rank in production with a score of 62 among defensive tackles further demonstrated that he brought real value on the field beyond raw athletic testing.
Tommy Akingbesote: Playing Style
Strength, Grit, and Smart Football
Tommy Akingbesote’s style of play centers around physicality, leverage, and discipline.
Rather than relying purely on speed or flashy moves, he wins battles through hand technique, maintaining low pad levels, and an unrelenting motor.
Against the run, Akingbesote excels at anchoring the line, absorbing double teams, and clogging gaps to free up linebackers to make plays.
In pass-rush situations, while he may not have elite quick-twitch moves, he can collapse the pocket with sheer power and well-timed bull rushes.
His film shows a player who rarely gets pushed backward and who understands situational football — a vital trait for defensive tackles at the next level.
Key Strengths and Attributes
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Physical Sturdiness: Akingbesote’s frame and strength make him a nightmare for offensive linemen trying to open rushing lanes.
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Football IQ: His awareness, ability to read offensive line shifts, and pre-snap recognition give him an edge.
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Motor and Effort: Play after play, Akingbesote brings relentless energy, refusing to quit on any down.
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Leadership: As a full-time starter, he became a quiet but strong leader in Maryland’s locker room.
Areas for Growth and Development
While Akingbesote’s college production and Combine showing are commendable, there are areas he’ll need to address to excel in the NFL:
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Pass-Rush Arsenal: Adding more finesse moves, such as swim moves or club-and-rip techniques, would make him a more dangerous threat on passing downs.
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Lateral Quickness: Improving side-to-side movement could help him chase plays down more effectively, especially in today’s fast-paced offensive schemes.
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Conditioning: Maintaining peak endurance will be crucial as the professional level demands faster and more frequent snaps.
Draft Outlook: Where Could He Land?
Given his Combine performance and college tape, Tommy Akingbesote projects as a late Day 3 pick — somewhere between the fifth and seventh rounds.
Teams looking for interior depth, particularly for a rotational defensive tackle who can contribute against the run immediately, will find Akingbesote an appealing option.
Franchises that rely on stout defensive fronts, such as the Pittsburgh Steelers, Baltimore Ravens, or New England Patriots, could be ideal landing spots.
These organizations value technically sound, high-effort players who contribute selflessly to the team concept.
Throughout his career at Maryland, Akingbesote was not just a strong player but a role model for younger teammates. His quiet perseverance, resilience through early setbacks, and dedication to improvement offer lessons beyond football.
By staying grounded, focused, and team-oriented, Akingbesote sets an example for young athletes dreaming of playing at the highest level.
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Who Are Tommy Akingbesote’s Parents?
A Closer Look at His Family Roots
Tommy Akingbesote, a rising star from Largo, Maryland, carries with him a rich heritage and strong family background.
His parents, Arinola Folashade Afuye Akingbesote and Odunmorayo Jackson Akingbesote, have played pivotal roles in shaping the man he is today.
Let’s dive deeper into the story of Tommy’s parents, their backgrounds, and the cultural influences that have been woven into Tommy’s life.
When you hear the name Tommy Akingbesote, it isn’t just a name — it’s a legacy. Born in Largo, Maryland, Tommy is the proud son of Arinola and Jackson Akingbesote. Both parents bring a strong Nigerian heritage to their family, deeply influencing Tommy’s upbringing and values.
Their journey from Nigeria to the United States speaks volumes about their commitment to family, education, and opportunity — principles they have undoubtedly passed down to their son.
Meet Tommy Akingbesote’s Mother: Arinola Folashade Afuye Akingbesote
Arinola Folashade Afuye Akingbesote is more than just the mother of a talented young man; she is a woman of resilience and ambition.
Hailing from Ikere-Ekiti in Ekiti State, Nigeria, Arinola’s early life was shaped by the vibrant culture of southwestern Nigeria.
Now living in Bowie, Maryland, Arinola has successfully blended her Nigerian roots with American life. She pursued higher education at Washington Adventist University, emphasizing the importance of knowledge and personal development.
Her academic journey reflects her dedication to growth, a value she likely instilled in Tommy from a young age.
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A Mother’s Influence: More Than Just Support
Arinola’s influence on Tommy stretches beyond typical parental support. Her Nigerian background likely exposed Tommy to the values of discipline, respect for elders, and a strong sense of community — all deeply rooted in Yoruba and Ekiti traditions.
Moreover, her decision to further her education in the United States sets an example of lifelong learning and perseverance.
These attributes not only contribute to Tommy’s personal development but also shape how he navigates challenges and opportunities in his life.
Introducing Tommy Akingbesote’s Father: Odunmorayo Jackson Akingbesote
On the other side of Tommy’s family story is his father, Odunmorayo Jackson Akingbesote. Originally from Idanre in Nigeria, Jackson brings a strong sense of cultural pride and academic achievement to the family dynamic.
Jackson’s educational background is impressive. He attended Yaba College of Technology — one of Nigeria’s prestigious polytechnics — from 1988 to 2000.
His studies reflect a commitment to technical and professional excellence, values that often resonate in how he approaches family and career.
Currently residing in Maryland City, Maryland, Jackson has maintained close ties to his Nigerian heritage while embracing his life in the United States.
Tommy Akingbesote: Ethnical Roots
The Nigerian Influence in Tommy’s Life
Both of Tommy’s parents bring deep Nigerian heritage to their family. From the vibrant traditions of Ikere-Ekiti to the historic town of Idanre, Tommy’s roots are rich with history, pride, and resilience.
This cultural backdrop likely plays a significant role in Tommy’s life. Celebrations like Yoruba festivals, traditional naming ceremonies, and community gatherings are common among Nigerian families in America.
Through his parents, Tommy has probably experienced a unique blend of Nigerian customs and American culture — giving him a broader worldview and a strong sense of identity.
Educational Emphasis: A Shared Value in the Akingbesote Family
One common thread that connects Arinola and Jackson is their strong belief in education.
Arinola’s attendance at Washington Adventist University and Jackson’s years at Yaba College of Technology show that education is a priority in the Akingbesote household.
This emphasis on learning and self-betterment undoubtedly shaped Tommy’s approach to his own ambitions.
Growing up in a household where higher education was not only encouraged but celebrated provided him with a strong foundation for future success.
From Nigeria to Maryland: A Story of Migration and Opportunity
The journey from Nigeria to Maryland is a story of courage, hope, and new beginnings.
Like many Nigerian immigrants, Arinola and Jackson moved to the U.S. in pursuit of better opportunities for themselves and their children.
Settling in Maryland — particularly in places like Bowie and Maryland City — offered the Akingbesotes a vibrant community, access to education, and a supportive environment to raise a family.
Maryland has a significant Nigerian-American population, making it easier to maintain cultural traditions while integrating into American society.
Family Values: The Heart of Tommy’s Upbringing
- At the core of Tommy’s story are the values his parents instilled in him: perseverance, respect, hard work, and pride in one’s heritage.
- Arinola and Jackson’s journey, their commitment to education, and their embrace of both Nigerian and American cultures created a nurturing environment for Tommy.
- These family values are often invisible threads that guide individuals toward greatness — and Tommy’s future achievements will likely continue to reflect his family’s deep influence.
- With such a rich family background and strong parental support, Tommy Akingbesote’s future looks incredibly bright.
- Whether he pursues athletics, academics, or another path, he carries with him the legacy of Arinola and Jackson Akingbesote — a legacy built on hard work, cultural pride, and relentless ambition.
- It’s clear that Tommy’s roots are not just about where he comes from, but about the strength, wisdom, and love that his parents have provided.
- Wherever his journey leads, the foundation laid by Arinola and Jackson will remain a guiding force.
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