George Odum: From Undrafted Rookie to NFL All Pro
George Odum’s journey in the NFL is nothing short of inspiring. A two-time All-Pro athlete, Odum currently plays as a safety and special teams ace for the San Francisco 49ers. His rise to prominence, from humble beginnings to NFL stardom, is a story of relentless determination and unwavering focus.
The Making of an NFL Standout
Born and raised in Millington, Tennessee, Odum’s football journey began at the University of Central Arkansas, where he played for five seasons after redshirting his freshman year. As a senior, he led the Bears in tackles and was named Southland Conference Defensive Player of the Year. Despite his college success, Odum went undrafted in 2018. However, his perseverance paid off when he earned a tryout with the Indianapolis Colts. Odum made the most of his opportunity, excelling on special teams during training camp and securing a spot on the team.
Odum’s impact was immediate. Known for his speed—reaching a top running speed of 21.5 mph—he quickly established himself as one of the NFL’s top special teams players. His relentless pursuit of excellence led him to top the NFL in special teams tackles twice, in 2020 and 2022, which earned him AP First-Team All-Pro honors in 2020 and AP Second-Team All-Pro honors in 2022. In 2023, Odum continued to shine, appearing in 11 games, where he not only registered two tackles on defense but also tied for the team lead with 10 special teams tackles. These standout performances cemented his reputation and earned him the fitting nickname, “All-Pro G-O.”
Overcoming Adversity and Rising to the Top
Odum’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. During the 2023-2024 season, he suffered a torn biceps, an injury that would sideline many players. But Odum’s resilience shone through as he fought back to return in time for the NFC Divisional Playoffs. His defensive skills were pivotal in propelling the 49ers to Super Bowl LVIII, where he made his first Super Bowl appearance.
A Partnership Built on Shared Values
Odum’s connection with NOVUS began in a meaningful way. The partnership was sparked by a crown tattoo paired with the James 1:12 verse on a friend of George's—an image that resonated deeply with the NOVUS team. This connection blossomed into a collaboration grounded in shared values: faith, family, and football. Odum’s desire to create an identity that truly represented who he is both on and off the field aligned perfectly with NOVUS’s mission.
Working closely with the NOVUS design team, Odum developed his own logo and brand, symbolized by an arrow and the mantra “GO 30”—a reminder to always move forward in one direction. His dedication to personal growth and his focus on making a positive impact on others are central to both his football career and his partnership with NOVUS.
NFL Preseason: A Preview of What’s to Come
As the NFL preseason unfolds, George Odum is making waves with his stellar performance. Now in his third season with the 49ers, Odum has been lining up with the first-team defense, where he has already snagged four interceptions during practice. His ability to make big plays against starting quarterback Brock Purdy has not gone unnoticed, and his leadership on the field has earned him the respect of his teammates. In San Francisco’s first preseason game against the Titans, Odum recorded six tackles, showcasing his ball hawking ability.
Though no final decisions have been made regarding the starting lineup, Odum’s impressive preseason has positioned him as a strong contender for the starting safety role. His journey from undrafted rookie to potential starter is a testament to his work ethic and determination—a true embodiment of the NOVUS spirit.
As the season approaches, all eyes will be on George Odum as he continues to claim his crown on the field. Stay tuned for what’s sure to be an exciting season for this NOVUS athlete.