Sacramento State alumnus Marte Mapu will compete in the upcoming Super Bowl 60, set to take place at Levi’s Stadium. Mapu’s journey from playing linebacker for the Sacramento State Hornets to suiting up for the New England Patriots highlights a remarkable rise fueled by dedication and resilience.
The Patriots, enjoying an unexpectedly strong 14-3 regular season, are heading to their 12th Super Bowl appearance, where they will face the Seattle Seahawks. This opportunity marks a significant milestone for Mapu, who credits his time at Sacramento State for laying the foundation of his professional career and his current chance at a championship.
Marte Mapu’s College Achievements and Draft Milestone
Mapu’s most impressive college season came in 2022 when he earned the title of Big Sky Defensive Player of the Year. That year, he recorded 76 total tackles across 13 games, ranking second on his team and securing first-team All-Big Sky honors. His standout performance caught the attention of NFL scouts.
In the 2023 NFL Draft, Mapu was selected 76th overall in the third round by the New England Patriots, becoming the highest-drafted player in Sacramento State history. This selection marked a pivotal step in his career, turning his collegiate success into a professional opportunity with one of the league’s most storied franchises.
Notable NFL Performances Leading Up to the Super Bowl
During the 2025 NFL season, Mapu showed his potential in a notable game against the Tennessee Titans on October 19. He contributed eight tackles and a pass deflection, helping the Patriots secure a 31-13 victory. Such performances have been crucial in cementing his role on this competitive Patriots squad.
Recognizing the Personal Significance of Playing Near Home
Reflecting on the realization of playing so close to Sacramento during Super Bowl week, Mapu shared a moment that brought the event’s gravity into perspective. While discussing with friends on a taco run, the proximity of the game to his hometown became clear, emphasizing the unique nature of this experience.
“We were just kind of talking about how close to home we’re actually playing this game,”
Mapu told ABC10’s Kevin John.
“At first, I was really just focused on the game, and it didn’t really faze me.”
“To be playing this close to home, to be practicing in the same facility that some of my coaches are in right now, to be able to go and see my family during the week — I’m grateful for those things,”
he added.
Patriots’ Quest for Another Championship
The New England Patriots enter the Super Bowl as an underdog team with a strong 14-3 record, vying for their seventh title. Led by key players like Stefon Diggs and supported by emerging talents like Mapu, this squad has defied expectations through resilience and teamwork. Their matchup against the Seattle Seahawks promises to be a fiercely contested contest on football’s biggest stage.
The Broader Impact of Mapu’s Journey
Marte Mapu’s path from Sacramento State to the NFL sheds light on how determination and perseverance can transform an athlete’s career. His success inspires current and future college players aiming to make a mark professionally. Playing the Super Bowl near his hometown not only highlights his personal achievements but also strengthens community pride in Sacramento State’s football program.
As the Patriots and Seahawks prepare to face off at Levi’s Stadium, fans and supporters of Mapu will be watching closely, hopeful that his journey continues toward a Super Bowl victory that could define his legacy.
