Newton Essiem brings size, steady tackling, and special-teams-ready toughness to Villanova’s secondary
In the 2024 season, Essiem played in 11 games for Villanova and finished with 10 tackles and two pass break-ups, including a career-high four tackles in the FCS playoffs against UIW. His profile suggests a physical, reliable defensive back who competes well in pressure situations and has already shown he can contribute in meaningful games. At 5-foot-11 and 185 pounds, he looks like a solid fit for a team that values discipline, versatility, and depth in the secondary rather than a pure highlight-reel playmaker.
