Viliami Fehoko Jr. Bio
Viliami Taopa Fehoko Jr. is an American professional football defensive tackle for the Indianapolis Colts of the National Football League (NFL). Born on December 16, 1999, in Stanford, California, he attended Saint Francis High School before playing college football for the San Jose State Spartans. Fehoko was named the 2022 Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year and was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft. He has also played for teams such as the Washington Commanders and the Indianapolis Colts.
Early Life and Background
Viliami Fehoko Jr. was born in Stanford, California, and raised in East Palo Alto, California. He attended Saint Francis High School, where he played as a tight end for the football team. During his senior year, he earned several accolades, including All-West Coast Athletic League honors and was recognized by the Bay Area News Group as a first-team All-Bay Area player. Additionally, he was an active member of the East Palo Alto Razorbacks rugby club. On February 3, 2018, he committed to play college football at San Jose State University.
Path to American Football
Fehoko transitioned from tight end to defensive end during his freshman year at San Jose State University. In his first season, he appeared in four conference games before being redshirted, recording five tackles, three of which were against the University of Wyoming. As a redshirt freshman in 2019, he became the starter at left defensive end, accumulating 44 tackles, including three for loss, one sack, and four pass deflections. His performance earned him a starting position in 2020, where he led the conference with 12.5 tackles for loss and was named first-team All-Mountain West for the first time in his career.
Viliami Fehoko Jr. Career
Early Career (2018-2022)
Viliami Fehoko Jr. began his college football career at San Jose State University in 2018. As a redshirt sophomore in 2020, he started all eight games of the season, leading the team with 12.5 tackles for loss and earning first-team All-Mountain West honors. In 2021, he continued to excel, starting all 12 games and leading the team in both tackles for loss and sacks. His senior year in 2022 was particularly impressive, as he recorded a career-high 69 tackles, 19 tackles for loss, and nine sacks, which led to him being named the Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year for his outstanding performance.
Breakthrough (2023-Present)
Fehoko’s professional journey began when he was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft. Despite facing challenges, including a shoulder injury that limited his participation in the preseason, he was activated later in the season. In 2024, he began training camp with the Cowboys but was waived due to injuries. He then signed with the Washington Commanders’ practice squad, where he reunited with former Cowboys defensive coordinator Dan Quinn. As of November 18, 2025, Fehoko signed with the Indianapolis Colts’ practice squad, marking the latest chapter in his professional career.
Notable Works and Milestones
Viliami Fehoko Jr. has made significant strides in his football career, highlighted by his recognition as the Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year in 2022 and his consistent performance throughout his college career. His transition from college to the NFL showcases his resilience and determination to succeed in professional football.
Viliami Fehoko Jr. Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Viliami Fehoko Jr. has received notable nominations, including being named the Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year in 2022 and earning first-team All-Mountain West honors three times from 2020 to 2022.
Viliami Fehoko Jr. Awards Won
Viliami Fehoko Jr. has achieved significant recognition in his football career, including being named the Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year in 2022 and receiving first-team All-Mountain West honors for three consecutive years from 2020 to 2022.
Viliami Fehoko Jr. Family
Information regarding Viliami Fehoko Jr.’s family is limited. However, it is noted that he is a second cousin of Vita Vea, a fellow professional football player.
Personal Life
Viliami Fehoko Jr. is known to speak Tongan and can communicate in sign language, showcasing his diverse background and skills. He has maintained a relatively private personal life, focusing primarily on his professional career.