Jacob De Jesus: Wikipedia| NFL| Stats| Age| Ethnicity| Cal| 40 time

Jacob De Jesus: Complete Player Profile

Jacob De Jesus has emerged as one of college football’s most dynamic and inspiring wide receivers. Despite a smaller stature than many elite receivers, his production, versatility, and story of perseverance have made him a compelling NFL draft prospect. This detailed profile covers his biography, statistics, athletic measurements (including 40 time), background, college career, and future outlook. 

Early Life & Background

Full Name: Jacob Marcus De Jesus
Birthplace: Manteca, California, United States 
High School: Manteca High School (CA) 
Ethnicity: American (of likely Hispanic/Latino heritage—specific ethnicity details are not widely documented in public sources)
Age: Born ~2002–2003 (approx. 22–23 years old as of 2025; exact birthdate not publicly documented) 

De Jesus grew up in Manteca, where he dominated high school football, amassing over 5,000 all-purpose yards and 53 touchdowns. His performance established him as one of California’s top small-school athletes despite limited early recruiting attention. 

College Football Journey

Modesto Junior College

After high school, De Jesus began his collegiate career at Modesto Junior College (MJC), where he immediately stood out. In 2021 and 2022, he posted exceptional all-purpose numbers, earning All-American honors and leading the team in receiving, rushing, and return duties. 

 UNLV Rebels

In 2023, De Jesus transferred to the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), where he continued to shine as both a receiver and return specialist. His versatility earned him All-Mountain West accolades and placement among national leaders in both punt and kickoff returns. In addition, he was recognized on the USA TODAY Sports All-America team as a kick returner. 

California Golden Bears (Cal)

In January 2025, De Jesus committed to the University of California, Berkeley, to play his senior season for the Cal Golden Bears. His addition immediately elevated Cal’s receiving corps and special teams units.

Cal Career & Breakout Season

In the 2025 season, De Jesus has been one of the ACC’s top receivers and most productive playmakers:

• Receptions: 99 (ranks 3rd nationally)

• Receiving Yards: 892

• Receiving Touchdowns: 5

• Average per Catch: 9.0 yards

• Punt Returns: 20 for 225 yards

• Kick Returns: 16 for 330 yards 

De Jesus’ 99 receptions place him just one catch shy of Cal’s single-season record, demonstrating both consistency and reliability in the passing game.

Career Stats Overview

Below is a breakdown of De Jesus’ production over his collegiate career:

Athletic Profile & NFL Draft Prospect

Measurements

• Height: 5’7″

• Weight: ~170 lbs

• Class: Senior 

Despite being undersized relative to typical NFL receivers, De Jesus’ quickness, toughness, and route precision have drawn comparisons to successful smaller skill players in pro football.

40-Yard Dash Time

Jacob De Jesus does not have a widely published official NFL Combine 40-yard dash time. However, DraftScout lists his projected range from approximately 4.40 to 4.57 seconds in the 40-yard dash based on scouting projections and pro day data. 

This range places him among fast collegiate receivers, particularly considering his smaller frame and role as a contested-catch and possession receiver.

NFL Draft Outlook & Projection

De Jesus is eligible for the 2026 NFL Draft and is being evaluated by scouts as a versatile receiver with special teams value. Key strengths include:

• Reliable hands and route running

• Strong football IQ and work ethic

• Versatility as a receiver and return specialist

• Competitive toughness against larger defenders

While not projected as an early-round pick, De Jesus could attract attention in the mid to late rounds if his pro day or pre-draft workouts confirm his speed and agility. Teams looking for slot receivers and special teams contributors may value his skill set. 

Personal Life & Character

Off the field, Jacob De Jesus has a compelling personal story. He became a father while still in high school, a challenge he balanced with his football aspirations thanks to family support. Later, the loss of his father in 2024 further motivated his pursuit of an NFL career. 

De Jesus is engaged and has a daughter, adding to his narrative of resilience and leadership both on and off the field. 

Honors & Recognitions

During his college career, De Jesus has earned multiple honors:

• All-ACC Selection (Receiver & All-Purpose)

• Paul Hornung Award Watchlist (top versatile player in college football)

• Jet Award Watchlist (top return specialist) 

These accolades reflect his value as both a receiver and return threat.

Summary: Why Jacob De Jesus Matters

Jacob De Jesus has become one of college football’s most exciting underdog stories:

Elite production at a Power-5 program (Cal)
Nationally ranked among receptions
Versatile skill set on offense and special teams
 Inspiring personal journey
NFL draft prospect with unique traits

His combination of productivity, determination, and athleticism has made him not just a standout at Cal but a name to watch for pro scouts and football fans alike.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is Jacob De Jesus’ age?
Jacob De Jesus is approximately 22–23 years old as of 2025, based on his high school graduation class and recruiting history. 

2. What position does Jacob De Jesus play?
He plays wide receiver and also contributes as a punt and kickoff return specialist. 

3. What are his college statistics?
In 2025 alone, he has 99 receptions for 892 yards and 5 touchdowns, placing him among the top receivers nationally. 

4. Does De Jesus have an official 40-yard dash time?
He does not have an official NFL Combine time yet, but projections list his 40-yard dash between roughly 4.40 and 4.57 seconds. 

5. Where did he play before Cal?
De Jesus played at Modesto Junior College and then at UNLV before transferring to Cal. 

6. Is he a draft prospect for the NFL?
Yes — his performance and versatility have put him on the radar for the 2026 NFL Draft, particularly as a slot receiver and special teams contributor.