New DT Leki Fotu on Why He Signed with the Jets in Free Agency: Opportunity
Utah Product Grew Up Playing Rugby; Was Coached by Former Jets DT Sione Po’uha
The Jets’ new DT Leki Fotu’s decision to sign with the Green & White in free agency boiled down to one word.
“Opportunity,” Fotu said. “I felt like the Jets were the right fit for me. The scheme plan that the coaches have, I think it’s a great gameplan that they have for me coming in. And also to be part of the defense that they have been shown over the recent years with this coaching staff.
“I feel like my game, there’s still a lot more improvements, which makes me excited. But to be around these guys, the front for knowing for attack style of play, I’m excited to be part of that. The past four years with the Cardinals, it’s been a ride with them in their scheme. I’m excited to join this.”
In four seasons with Arizona, Fotu racked up 89 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks (2.5 last season) and 7 QB hits. His stats don’t jump off the screen, but his agility jumps off the tape. Not many players who are 6-5, 335 move like Fotu, which he credits to his basketball and rugby background.
“I got into [rugby] through my two older brothers and I kind of just followed their footsteps,” he said. “Same as football [they played college football at Illinois and Arizona]. But rugby, for me, in high school kind of took over. Football wasn’t really there, but it definitely shaped the person that I am and player that I am right now. And basketball with a lot of running, I think most of that conditioning and that fitness part comes from that too. Being able to play multiple sports, I think it’s very beneficial.”
