The NFL Draft always delivers unforgettable moments, but Olu Fashanu’s draft night last year gifted fans a truly unexpected highlight.
As the New York Jets scooped up the standout Penn State offensive lineman with the No. 11 overall pick, his mother, Paige Fashanu, stole the show. Her enthusiastic celebration quickly turned into a viral sensation, and now, as the 2025 NFL Draft unfolds, the clip is making waves all over again.
Surrounded by family and friends at his home in Waldorf, Maryland, Olu sat anxiously between his parents and his girlfriend. Once the call from the Jets came through, the room erupted. Paige launched herself onto her son with a full-body hug that left little room for anyone else, including Olu’s girlfriend, who found herself boxed out of the celebration in a way that many fans compared to an elite defensive maneuver.
Mother’s Block Becomes Internet Legend
As soon as the Jets’ call ended, Paige wrapped her arms tightly around Olu, clutching him with everything she had. Videos circulating online showed his girlfriend, sitting to his left, trying several times to reach him, but Paige blocked her with her arms and elbows.
WILD: #Jets star Olu Fashanu’s mother outboxed his girlfriend while he was being drafted by the team.
— MLFootball (@_MLFootball) April 26, 2025
😭😭😭
All-time draft moment.
pic.twitter.com/5tnKjWA4cg
According to the Atlanta Black Star, the girlfriend, though not officially identified, appeared very much a part of the family circle, given her placement next to Olu and her efforts to touch his hand and leg during the excitement. At one point, Paige did extend an embrace toward her, signaling no real animosity- just a mother’s unstoppable pride.
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Roughly 50 family members and friends filled the house, all watching the moment unfold. Even as Olu stood up, his mother stayed glued to him, still shielding her son from anyone else eager for a hug. Observers online joked that Paige’s form would make any NFL offensive line coach proud, crediting her with displaying the very skills that earned her son his first-round draft selection.
Though Olu Fashanu’s personal life remains private, mainly, his family’s emotional outpouring showed just how much the moment meant. As the 2025 NFL Draft brings fresh memories for other prospects, the internet has ensured that the Fashanu family’s unforgettable celebration gets another moment in the limelight.
Also Read: NFL First Round Draft Pick’s Mother Tragically Died Just Hours After Her Son Was Selected
