Former Michigan defensive tackle Kris Jenkins Jr. is one of the best defensive line prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft. He should hear his name on Day 2 and could be an early second-round pick.
Football has been a big part of his family’s life, as his father was a former NFL player, and his mother has been his biggest football fan for years.
A Look at Kris Jenkins Jr.’s Parents
Jenkins Jr. was born Oct. 10, 2001, to Kris Jenkins and Shay DeLotch in Olney, Maryland.
The relationship that Jenkins Jr. shares with his mother was on full display after Michigan won its College Football Playoff game against Alabama. His father’s playing style is also evident in Jenkins Jr.’s game.
Getting To Know Kris Jenkins
Like his son, Jenkins made his presence felt on the football field. He played his collegiate football at Maryland.
Jenkins finished his college career with 154 tackles and 9.5 sacks. His play in college got the attention of NFL scouts, and Jenkins was drafted with the 44th pick in 2001 by the Carolina Panthers.
Jenkins was outstanding in his first three seasons for the Panthers, as he played in all 48 games and made 43 starts. In his second year, he finished with 44 tackles and seven sacks.
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Jenkins had an up-and-down career, in large part because of injuries. He played 16 games in a season six times. However, the other four seasons he played in, he saw action in only 12 total games.
In 10 NFL seasons, Jenkins was named a Pro Bowler four times. He was also named first-team All-Pro in 2002 and 2003 while making second-team All-Pro in 2008.
Jenkins has a very good relationship with his son and has been a huge part of his football development. He trains his son and has helped guide him through the process.
Getting To Know Shay DeLotch
When it comes to Jenkins Jr., he doesn’t have a bigger supporter than his mom, Shay DeLotch.
After Michigan defeated Alabama in the semifinal game last year, Jenkins Jr. was on the field celebrating when the confetti started to fall.
His mom, DeLotch, found him on the field and celebrated in one of the more iconic photos of the college football season.
"I know how hard you've worked for this."
This moment between Kris Jenkins and his mom after Michigan's Rose Bowl victory ❤️ pic.twitter.com/lBfqElxKDA
— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) January 2, 2024
During the embrace, DeLotch couldn’t have been more proud of her son.
“Because I know how hard you worked for this,” DeLotch said through tears. “It’s not just a game. I’m crying about a stupid football game because I’m so proud of you. You worked for it so hard. People don’t get it. They don’t know. They think it’s easy, they talk about it from the sidelines. They don’t know the work you put in. I’m so proud of you. I love you so much. And I’m sorry, I just love you so much, I’m so proud of you. Do you understand?”
The relationship is special because DeLotch truly supports her son. Jenkins Jr., in interviews, has said that she isn’t a big football fan and that he is having to teach her the game at all times.
KEEP READING: Top DTs in the 2024 NFL Draft
Jenkins Jr. has a ton of support from both of his parents, even if they both do it differently.
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