David Onyemata – Atlanta Falcons Net Worth, Contract, Career Stats, and Future Outlook

David Onyemata is a professional NFL player who currently plays as a defensive tackle for the Atlanta Falcons. Born in Nigeria and trained in Canada, he entered the NFL in 2016 after being drafted by the New Orleans Saints. Known for his power and consistency on the field, Onyemata has built a strong football career over several seasons.

He signed a three-year, $35 million contract with the Falcons in 2023. Off the field, he keeps a low public profile and rarely shares personal details. This article covers his biography, career milestones, contract, earnings, and future outlook—based on verified and up-to-date information only.

Who Is David Onyemata?

David Onyemata is a professional American football player. He plays as a defensive tackle for the Atlanta Falcons in the National Football League (NFL). He is known for his strength, speed, and consistency on the defensive line. Onyemata began his NFL career with the New Orleans Saints in 2016. Since then, he has become one of the most reliable interior linemen in the league. He is also one of the few Nigerian-born players to succeed in professional American football.

Where Was David Onyemata Born and Raised?

David Onyemata was born in Lagos, Nigeria, on November 13, 1992. He grew up in Lagos, which is the largest city in Nigeria. His early years were spent in a busy, urban environment. He moved to Canada as a young adult to study and play football. Before moving to Canada, he had never played organized football.

What Is David Onyemata’s Family and Ethnic Background?

David Onyemata comes from a Nigerian family. His ethnic roots are tied to the Igbo community, one of Nigeria’s largest ethnic groups. He grew up in a close-knit household that valued education and discipline. His parents encouraged both academics and personal growth. His background reflects a mix of African culture and strong family support.

Where Does David Onyemata Currently Live?

David Onyemata currently lives in the United States during the NFL season. As a member of the Atlanta Falcons, he is based in Georgia. Like many NFL players, he likely splits his time between team facilities and personal residences. He also travels for games and training throughout the year.

Is David Onyemata Married or in a Relationship?

As of the latest public information, David Onyemata has not confirmed being married. There are no official reports of him being in a public relationship. He keeps his private life away from the media. This approach helps him focus on his career and personal goals.

Does David Onyemata Have Children?

There is no verified information stating that David Onyemata has children. He has not spoken publicly about having a family or raising children. Most of his media coverage and interviews focus on his professional life.

Has David Onyemata Faced Any Legal Issues or Controversies?

David Onyemata was suspended in 2019 for violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy. He tested positive for a banned substance and received a one-game suspension. In 2021, he faced another six-game suspension for a similar issue related to performance-enhancing drugs. Outside of these incidents, he has not been involved in any major legal controversies.

What Is David Onyemata’s Social Media Presence Like?

David Onyemata is active on Instagram. His account shares photos from games, team activities, and personal milestones. He does not post often but stays connected with fans during key moments. He uses the platform mainly to highlight his football career and professional updates.

What Are David Onyemata’s Hobbies and Interests Off the Field?

Off the field, David Onyemata has an interest in learning and travel. He earned a degree in environmental science from the University of Manitoba. He values education and often speaks about its importance. He also enjoys spending time with teammates and staying active in the community. However, he keeps most of his personal interests private.

David Onyemata’s College Football Journey

David Onyemata’s path to football was unusual. He began playing the sport in Canada, not in the United States. After moving from Nigeria, he joined the University of Manitoba and played for the Manitoba Bisons. This marked the start of his football career. He learned the game from the ground up, developed quickly, and became one of the top players in Canadian college football.

Which College Did David Onyemata Play For?

David Onyemata played college football at the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg, Canada. He was a member of the Manitoba Bisons, the school’s football team. This university competes in Canadian Interuniversity Sport, not in the NCAA. Despite the lower profile, the program helped him grow as a player.

What Were David Onyemata’s Achievements in College?

During his time at Manitoba, Onyemata earned major honors. In 2015, he won the J.P. Metras Trophy. This award is given to the top lineman in Canadian university football. He also became the first player from the University of Manitoba to be invited to the East-West Shrine Game. His college performance attracted attention from NFL scouts despite being outside the traditional U.S. college system.

Did David Onyemata Participate in Bowl Games or Receive NIL Deals?

David Onyemata did not play in NCAA bowl games. Canadian university football does not follow the same postseason structure. He played in the East-West Shrine Game in the United States, which showcases top college talent. There were no NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals available during his college years. Those policies began years later, so they did not apply to his time in school.

Did David Onyemata Transfer Schools During College?

No, David Onyemata did not transfer schools during his college career. He stayed at the University of Manitoba from start to finish. He began learning football there and completed his college career with the same team. This gave him time to grow steadily within one program.

Is David Onyemata Still Connected to His College Program?

Yes, David Onyemata remains connected to the University of Manitoba. He has expressed appreciation for the coaches and staff who helped his development. His success has brought attention to the program. The school and its football team often mention him as a proud example of what their athletes can achieve.

How Did College Football Shape David Onyemata’s NFL Path?

College football was the foundation of Onyemata’s NFL journey. It was at Manitoba that he learned the game and built the skills needed for the next level. He stood out in a smaller league by working hard and learning fast. His physical ability and improvement caught the eyes of NFL scouts. Playing in the East-West Shrine Game helped him prove he could compete with top talent from the U.S.

How Did David Onyemata Perform at the NFL Combine?

David Onyemata did not attend the official NFL Combine. However, he held a private Pro Day in Winnipeg in front of NFL scouts. During this workout, he showed impressive strength and speed. His performance helped increase interest among NFL teams. He was later drafted based on both his college play and his Pro Day results.

David Onyemata’s NFL Career and Performance

David Onyemata entered the NFL with limited exposure compared to most players. Still, he quickly became a key player on the defensive line. Over the years, he has earned respect for his strength, work ethic, and ability to stop the run. He plays at a physically demanding position and maintains a consistent level of performance. His career reflects steady growth and proven value on the field.

When Was David Onyemata Drafted and by Which Team?

David Onyemata was selected in the fourth round of the 2016 NFL Draft. He was the 120th overall pick. The New Orleans Saints drafted him after being impressed by his Pro Day performance. He became the first player from the University of Manitoba to be drafted into the NFL.

Which NFL Teams Has David Onyemata Played For?

David Onyemata has played for two NFL teams:

• New Orleans Saints (2016 to 2022)
  
• Atlanta Falcons (2023 to present)
  

He spent seven seasons with the Saints before signing with the Falcons as a free agent.

What Are David Onyemata’s Notable Career Highlights?

Onyemata has built a solid resume in the NFL. His stats and achievements include:

Season	Team	Total Tackles	Sacks	Games Played
2016	New Orleans Saints	18	1.0	16
2018	New Orleans Saints	35	4.5	16
2020	New Orleans Saints	44	6.5	15
2022	New Orleans Saints	43	5.0	17
2023	Atlanta Falcons	40	4.0	15

Additional highlights:

• Recorded a career-best 6.5 sacks in 2020
  
• Played in over 110 NFL games
  
• Known for consistent interior pressure and run defense

Has David Onyemata Played in the Playoffs or Super Bowl?

Yes, David Onyemata has played in the NFL playoffs. He appeared in postseason games with the New Orleans Saints. His playoff experience includes:

• 2017 NFC Divisional Round
  
• 2018 NFC Championship Game
  
• 2019 and 2020 Wild Card and Divisional Rounds
  

He has not played in a Super Bowl. The Saints reached the NFC Championship in 2018 but lost to the Los Angeles Rams.

What Is David Onyemata Known for On the Field?

David Onyemata is known for his powerful frame and smart positioning. He often lines up as a defensive tackle and uses his strength to disrupt the offensive line. He excels in stopping the run and can also pressure the quarterback. Coaches value his ability to close gaps and stay disciplined in his role. He is not flashy, but he is very dependable.

What Injuries Has David Onyemata Dealt With?

David Onyemata has stayed mostly healthy during his career. However, like many linemen, he has dealt with minor injuries. In 2023, he missed two games with a knee issue. He also served two suspensions related to banned substances in 2019 and 2021. These were not injuries but did impact his availability.

How Has David Onyemata Developed Throughout His NFL Career?

Onyemata has improved steadily since entering the league. In his early years, he focused on learning technique and adjusting to the speed of the NFL. Over time, he developed into a starter and a core part of the defensive line. He added muscle, refined his footwork, and became more aware of offensive schemes. His growth shows in his tackle totals and sack numbers.

Is David Onyemata a Hall of Fame Prospect?

David Onyemata is not currently considered a Hall of Fame candidate. While he has had a strong career, he has not reached the elite statistical level typically required for Hall of Fame selection. He remains a respected and consistent player. If he continues to perform at a high level and earns more honors or championships, his legacy could grow stronger.

Future Plans and Off-Field Involvement

David Onyemata has built a solid career on the field. Off the field, he maintains a lower public profile. While he does not often speak about his future, his actions show interest in growth, discipline, and giving back. His education, international background, and professional journey suggest that he values long-term development beyond football.

Does David Onyemata Have Coaching or Broadcasting Aspirations?

There is no confirmed information about David Onyemata pursuing a future in coaching or broadcasting. He has not publicly discussed any plans to work as a football coach or media personality. At this time, his focus appears to remain on playing and contributing to his team. If he develops interest in these areas, it has not yet been shared with the public.

Is David Onyemata Involved in Youth Programs or Speaking Engagements?

There is limited public information about Onyemata’s direct involvement in youth programs or regular speaking events. He occasionally takes part in team-led community activities, such as school visits and fan engagement. However, he does not currently lead or promote any personal youth initiative. If he participates in such efforts, they are not widely reported.

What Causes or Charities Does David Onyemata Support?

David Onyemata has not publicly announced specific charities or causes that he supports. Some media sources mention community involvement, but no verified foundation or regular partnership is listed under his name. He appears to keep his charitable work private or low-profile. Any donations or personal efforts are not actively promoted on his public platforms.

What Are David Onyemata’s Long-Term Goals Beyond the NFL?

David Onyemata has not shared a clear plan for his life after football. He holds a degree in environmental science, which may open future paths in academics, sustainability, or business. His background suggests that education and structure are important to him. If he chooses to move into a second career, it may reflect those same values. As of now, he has not revealed any specific long-term goals beyond his NFL career.

David Onyemata’s Contract, Endorsements, and Business Ventures

David Onyemata has earned a strong position in the NFL through consistent performance. His contracts reflect his value as a reliable defensive tackle. While he keeps much of his business life private, some public records give insight into his earnings and partnerships.

What Is David Onyemata’s Current NFL Contract?

In March 2023, David Onyemata signed a three-year contract with the Atlanta Falcons. This deal was worth $35 million, including guaranteed money. It showed that the team trusted his experience and expected him to be a key part of their defense.

Contract Overview:

Detail	Value
Total Contract Value	$35 million
Contract Length	3 years (2023–2025)
Guaranteed Money	$24.5 million
Signing Bonus	$12 million
Average Yearly Salary	Approx. $11.6 million

What Bonuses or Incentives Are Included?

Onyemata’s contract includes standard bonuses found in NFL deals. These features reward players for meeting certain goals or remaining on the team.

Reported Bonuses and Incentives:

• Roster Bonus: Paid for being on the active roster during the season
  
• Performance Bonuses: May apply based on total snaps played or team success
  
• Workout Bonus: Reward for attending off-season training sessions
  
• Signing Bonus: $12 million paid at the time of signing
  

The full details of smaller bonuses are not publicly available, but these types are common in similar contracts.

Which Brands Endorse or Sponsor David Onyemata?

There are no confirmed public endorsements for David Onyemata at this time. He does not appear in major advertising campaigns. His social media also shows no clear brand partnerships. If he has small or private deals, they have not been reported or promoted publicly.

What Business Ventures Is David Onyemata Involved In?

There is no verified information about David Onyemata owning or operating any personal business. He has not announced involvement in real estate, media, or other business sectors. His career has mostly focused on football. If he is investing privately or planning ventures, they have not been shared with the public.

How Does David Onyemata Invest or Manage His Earnings?

David Onyemata has not publicly shared how he invests or manages his income. He keeps his financial planning private. There are no news reports or interviews showing involvement in public investments or financial firms. Like many athletes, he likely works with advisors to handle his finances, but that detail is not confirmed.

David Onyemata’s Net Worth and Income

David Onyemata has earned a strong living through his professional football career. His income is built on long-term contracts, performance bonuses, and consistent playing time. Although he does not speak publicly about his wealth, estimates can be made based on reliable contract data.

What Is David Onyemata’s Estimated Net Worth?

David Onyemata’s exact net worth is not publicly confirmed. Based on official NFL contract data, he has earned over $54.66 million in career salary since entering the league in 2016. This includes his current contract with the Atlanta Falcons and previous earnings with the New Orleans Saints. No verified sources report his total wealth, and he has not shared any financial details publicly.

What Are David Onyemata’s Income Sources Outside the NFL?

There is no verified information about significant income sources outside of football. Onyemata has no known endorsements, media deals, or business partnerships. His primary and likely only major income source is his NFL salary.

Known income source:

• NFL salary and bonuses
  

No confirmed income from:

• Endorsements
  
• Personal businesses
  
• Broadcasting or public speaking
  

Does David Onyemata Own Real Estate or Investments?

There is no confirmed public record showing that David Onyemata owns real estate. No purchases have been reported in reliable sources. Similarly, no details about stock investments or other financial holdings are publicly available. If he holds assets, they are private and not listed in news or legal records.

How Does David Onyemata Use or Donate His Wealth?

David Onyemata does not publicly share how he spends or donates his money. There is no official foundation linked to his name. He also has not spoken in media interviews about giving to charities. While he may support causes in private, no clear donation records or public philanthropy programs are confirmed.