Jacob Sykes
Career Summary
Jacob Sykes is a defensive tackle from Kansas City, Missouri, who played college football at Harvard and UCLA before pursuing professional opportunities in the UFL and NFL.
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Early Life
Sykes is from Kansas City, Missouri, and attended Rockhurst High School.
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High School
At Rockhurst High School, Sykes was a four-year letterwinner, a senior captain, a two-time all-district selection and a first-team all-state selection. He also lettered in track and basketball.
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College Career
Sykes began his college career at Harvard before transferring to UCLA in 2022. He played all 13 games with six starts for the Bruins, recorded at least one tackle in every game, and added three half-sacks. He was named third-team all-conference by Pro Football Focus.
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Path to the NFL
Sykes went undrafted in 2023 and signed with Seattle. He later played in the UFL before Philadelphia signed him during 2025 training camp.
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NFL Career
Philadelphia signed Sykes in July 2025, waived him at final roster cutdown, and re-signed him to its practice squad in September.
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Career Accomplishments
Sykes was named to the 2023 NFF Hampshire Honor Society after earning his degree and maintaining at least a 3.2 cumulative GPA while contributing on the field.
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Playing Style
Sykes worked as an interior defensive lineman. His UCLA season showed an ability to contribute in both run defense and pass rush, including six starts and three half-sacks.
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31264, 00-0038771, 1999-08-09, Jacob Sykes, Jacob, Sykes
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