Luke Gifford

Luke Gifford Bio

Luke Gifford is an American professional football linebacker for the San Francisco 49ers of the National Football League (NFL). Born on August 28, 1995, in Lincoln, Nebraska, he played college football for the Nebraska Cornhuskers and was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Dallas Cowboys in 2019. Gifford has also played for the Tennessee Titans before joining the 49ers in 2025.

Early Life and Background

Luke Gifford attended Lincoln Southeast High School in Lincoln, Nebraska, where he excelled as a two-way player, participating as both a tight end and safety. During his sophomore year, he contributed to his team’s success in winning the 2011 state championship. Gifford’s performance earned him second-team All-Nebraska honors as a junior, and he was named the starting quarterback during his senior year.

Path to American Football

After high school, Gifford accepted a football scholarship to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, initially intending to play safety. However, he was converted to a linebacker during his college career. As a redshirt freshman, he played in six games, recording seven tackles before suffering a season-ending hip injury. His sophomore year saw limited action, but by his junior year, he became a starter at outside linebacker, registering 39 tackles and 1.5 sacks before another injury sidelined him. In his senior season, he made a significant impact, posting 62 tackles, leading the team with 13 tackles for loss, and recording 5.5 sacks.

Luke Gifford Career

Early Career (2019–2021)

Luke Gifford was signed by the Dallas Cowboys as an undrafted free agent on April 30, 2019. He faced challenges early in his career, suffering a left high ankle sprain in his first preseason game, but managed to return to action later that season. Gifford appeared in six games during his rookie year, primarily contributing on special teams. In 2020, he played in eight games, finishing second on the team with seven special teams tackles despite facing a suspension for violating the league’s policy on performance-enhancing drugs.

Breakthrough (2022–2024)

Gifford’s breakthrough came in the 2021 season when he played in 16 games as a backup linebacker, recording six defensive tackles and blocking his first career punt against the New England Patriots. He re-signed with the Cowboys for the 2022 season, where he led the team with a career-high 12 special teams tackles. In March 2023, he signed a two-year contract with the Tennessee Titans, where he faced injury challenges but managed to play in 16 games during the 2024 season, finishing with a career-high 48 total tackles and two pass deflections.

Notable Works and Milestones

Gifford’s signature work includes his performance in the NFL, particularly his contributions on special teams and his development into a starting linebacker. He was selected for the Pro Bowl in 2025, marking a significant milestone in his career.

Luke Gifford Award Nominations

Throughout his career, Luke Gifford has received recognition for his performances, including a Pro Bowl selection in 2025, showcasing his impact in the NFL.

Luke Gifford Awards Won

Luke Gifford has won the Pro Bowl award in 2025, highlighting his achievements as a linebacker in the NFL.

Luke Gifford Family

Information regarding Luke Gifford’s family is not publicly available, and details about his parents or siblings have not been disclosed.

Personal Life

Details about Luke Gifford’s personal life, including marital status or children, are not publicly available. He maintains a private life outside of his professional football career.