All eyes were on Olu Fashanu’s family and girlfriend during the offensive tackle’s NFL draft celebrations Thursday night. Paige Fashanu, Olu’s mother, and an unidentified blonde woman, rumored to be dating the former Penn State star, went viral for their reactions after the Jets used their No. 11 overall pick on the 21-year-old Fashanu in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Many social media users pointed out that Paige appeared to be boxing out the blonde, who attempted to inch closer on a couch to celebrate with Fashanu. Paige’s protective stance drew comparisons to a football player in pass protection, leading to witty remarks that if Fashanu were half as good as his mother, the Jets would be set for the next decade.
While Paige sat in between her son and the blonde, she inadvertently bumped the latter while hugging the 6-foot-6, 312-pound tackle. Despite the initial awkwardness, Paige appeared overly excited and eventually put her arm around the blonde in a sweet moment. They were also seen holding hands before NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell announced the pick.
The internet, of course, did not hold back its commentary. “The girlfriend couldn’t get in there for anything,” one person wrote. “His mother was definitely in pass pro against the girlfriend. If he’s half as good as her, we’re set for the next decade,” another added.
SportsCenter anchors Randy Scott and Gary Striewski joined in on the fun, devoting a segment to the moment on Friday’s show. “This is textbook, if you’re reaching, I’m teaching,” Striewski said, referring to the blonde reaching over Paige to get to Fashanu. They kept pausing the playing of the clip for dramatic effect.
“Mom goes in for the hug,” Scott said, to which Striewski replied: “She deserves it first.” That’s when they played the part of the clip, which showed Paige pumping her right fist in the air. “She’s creating separation,” Striewski said. “She’s in pass pro!” Scott chimed in, “Her skills are his skills, just reborn into him.” Striewski added, “Mom might be a pick in night two or three of the draft.”
Fashanu is a two-time All-American and the 2023 Big Ten offensive lineman of the year. His mother’s unwavering support and his girlfriend’s presence by his side during this momentous occasion added a heartwarming touch to the NFL Draft festivities.
