Yannick Ngakoue Bio
Yannick Ngakoue is an American professional football linebacker in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Maryland Terrapins and was selected by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the third round of the 2016 NFL Draft. Ngakoue has played for several teams, including the Minnesota Vikings, Las Vegas Raiders, Indianapolis Colts, Chicago Bears, and has returned to the Baltimore Ravens. He is currently a member of the New England Patriots, where he signed a one-year contract in 2024.
Early Life and Background
Yannick Ngakoue was born on March 31, 1995, in Washington, D.C. He is of Cameroonian and Martiniquais descent. Ngakoue attended Friendship Collegiate Academy Public Charter School in Washington, D.C., where he excelled in football. During his senior year, he was recognized as the Gatorade Football Player of the Year for Washington D.C. after achieving an impressive 17 sacks. He was rated as a four-star recruit by Rivals.com and was ranked as the fourth-best outside linebacker in his class. Ngakoue committed to the University of Maryland, College Park, to further his football career.
Path to American Football
Ngakoue began his college football career at the University of Maryland in 2013. As a true freshman, he played in all 13 games, recording nine tackles, two sacks, and an interception. His performance improved in his sophomore year, where he started all 12 games and recorded 37 tackles and six sacks. In 2015, Ngakoue set a school record with 13.5 sacks, which led him to forgo his senior season and declare for the 2016 NFL Draft. His impressive college career laid the foundation for his entry into the professional league.
Yannick Ngakoue Career
Early Career (2016–2019)
Ngakoue was selected by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the third round of the 2016 NFL Draft as the 69th overall pick. He signed a four-year contract worth $3.48 million with the Jaguars. Ngakoue made his NFL debut in the season opener against the Green Bay Packers, where he recorded two combined tackles. He quickly established himself as a key player, earning a starting position and finishing his rookie season with 22 combined tackles, eight sacks, and a forced fumble. His performance earned him a spot on the PFWA All-Rookie Team.
Breakthrough (2017)
In 2017, Ngakoue’s performance reached new heights as he became a dominant force on the Jaguars’ defense. He started the season strong, recording multiple sacks and forced fumbles, and finished with 12 sacks, which tied for eighth in the league. His efforts contributed to the Jaguars finishing atop the AFC South with a 10–6 record. Ngakoue was named to his first Pro Bowl as an injury replacement for teammate Calais Campbell and was recognized as the NFL forced fumbles leader that year.
Notable Works and Milestones
Ngakoue’s signature work includes his record-setting performance in the 2017 season, where he was instrumental in the Jaguars’ playoff run. He was recognized for his achievements with several accolades, including being named to the Pro Bowl and leading the league in forced fumbles.
Yannick Ngakoue Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Yannick Ngakoue has received several nominations for his outstanding performances on the field, particularly during his breakout season in 2017.
Yannick Ngakoue Awards Won
Ngakoue has won notable awards, including being named to the Pro Bowl in 2017 and earning recognition as the NFL forced fumbles leader in the same year. He was also named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2016 and received First-team All-Big Ten honors in 2015.
Yannick Ngakoue Family
Information regarding Yannick Ngakoue’s family is not publicly available. There are no details about his parents, marital status, or children.
Personal Life
Yannick Ngakoue has maintained a relatively private personal life. He is focused on his professional career and has not publicly disclosed details about his relationships or personal endeavors.