The Daniels family exemplifies the rich football legacy in Warren, Ohio. James Daniels, an offensive lineman for the Pittsburgh Steelers, is the latest in a line of football talent that includes his father, LeShun Daniels Sr., a former Minnesota Vikings player, and his older brother, LeShun Jr., who has also played in the NFL. This remarkable family has not only made its mark on the field but has also emphasized the importance of education and character, instilling in James the values that have shaped his life and career.

Growing up in a household where academics and athletics coexisted, James thrived under the unwavering support of his parents. Alicia Daniels, a human relations specialist for the Library of Congress, played a crucial role in fostering a competitive yet nurturing environment. Together, she and LeShun Sr. prioritized education alongside football, teaching their sons the value of hard work and determination. As James begins his NFL journey, he carries with him his family’s athletic legacy and the life lessons imparted by his parents, setting the stage for a promising future on and off the field.

Who Are James Daniels’ Parents?

The Daniels family has deep roots in football and education, shaping James Daniels into the athlete and person he is today. Hailing from Warren, Ohio, James Daniels grew up with football in his veins. His father, LeShun Daniels Sr., played for the Minnesota Vikings in 1997 and was an integral member of the 1990 Harding state championship team. LeShun Sr.’s football journey, which began on the fields of Warren Harding High School, paved the way for his sons to follow in his footsteps, with his eldest, LeShun Jr., also reaching the NFL.

Alicia Daniels, James’ mother, has been a significant influence as well, prioritizing academic rigor and well-rounded development for her sons. Meeting at Ohio State University, where LeShun Sr. was part of a celebrated Buckeyes offensive line, LeShun Sr. and Alicia fostered a household that valued both athletic and academic achievement. Alicia, who now works as a human relations specialist for the Library of Congress, made education a priority in the Daniels household, setting up competitions to bolster her sons’ math and reading skills. Their dedication to both athletics and academics has positioned James as a “quiet and reserved” powerhouse, who transforms into a fierce competitor on the field.

Their influence extended to instilling core values that would see James rise as an offensive lineman with an exceptional football IQ and a strong desire to give back. Both parents worked to ensure their sons understood the importance of education, preparing them for life beyond the field, with LeShun Sr. often saying, “It’s hard work that creates success.”

Where is LeShun Daniels Sr. Now?

After his NFL career and a successful tenure in business, LeShun Daniels Sr. now works as a district manager for a national vending and hospitality company. Living in the Washington D.C. area with Alicia, LeShun Sr. remains connected to the sport that shaped his family’s legacy. Although he once cheered for the Cleveland Browns growing up, his loyalty is now firmly with the Steelers, where his son James plays as an offensive lineman.

The Daniels family has continued to be active in Warren’s community, returning in 2011, which allowed James and LeShun Jr. to benefit from playing under the storied Warren Harding football program. Today, LeShun Sr. takes pride in the success of his sons, particularly James, who is carving out his own legacy with the Pittsburgh Steelers, wearing the black and gold that reminds him of his roots at Iowa and Warren Harding.