Jordan Poyer‘s NFL success is not his story alone! His parents, especially his mom Julie Poyer, and his stepdad Fa’aleo Poyer’s role in his journey cannot be overlooked, through the ups and downs. The Miami Dolphins have lately made the decision to retain him as a starter for the team. And, it is because of his mental game, i.e., to get players in the right position.

Drafted by the Eagles back in 2013, he has also played for the Browns and Buffalo Bills. With over a decade of NFL experience, the one thing he is always grateful for is his parents’ support. Helping him navigate whatever came his way, they indeed need a shoutout for what they’ve done for him!

Who are Julie Poyer and Fa’aleo Poyer?

Jordan’s athletic prowess can undoubtedly be traced to his parents. His mom Julie was a former volleyball player at Chemeketa Community College. From there she went on to Eastern New Mexico University, where she met Jordan’s stepdad Fa’aleo. It was after she had separated from Jordan’s biological father, and was raising him as a single mother, she got together with Fa’aleo.

Not just his mom, but even his stepfather, Fa’aleo Poyer, has helped him build his athletic skills. Playing as a former tight end for the University of Oregon Ducks, he has been around Jordan for most of his life. He tied knots with Julie when Jordan was quite young, filling up the void left behind by his biological dad, Louis Dunbar. The absence was mostly there as Louis was in and out of prison for more than two decades.

But, now Jordan has let go of his resentment towards his father. After his ayahuasca experience and self-discovery, he remarked, “I realized I don’t need to hold onto that anger. I’m grateful for life, and one day I’ll meet him to tell him that.”

How have Jordan’s parents been constant supporters of him?

Currently living in Astoria, Oregon, both Julie and Fa’aleo worked as state juvenile counselors, teaching Jordan to be disciplined. Talking about his upbringing, he adds, “I  didn’t tend to get away with a whole lot as a kid.”

Fa’aleo has always been around, as a mentor and role model to Jordan. Talking about his presence during the games, he remarks, “My dad grew up a Steelers fan. I’m pretty sure he’s still a Steelers fan. He’s coming to the game this weekend, so I don’t know who he’s going to cheer for.” Fa’aleo is always adamant about respecting the Steeler’s flag, forbidding him from twirling it.

And, his mom, Julie’s role can never be understated. Even as a single mother back then, she has always been his rock. Being there for Jordan, and her younger son Jeramy, who hasn’t met Louis to date, she has always been like a shield. Louis was in fact released from prison in February 2022, as per the Minnesota Department of Corrections.

But, despite his incarceration, she never let the dark moments hamper her sons. And, indeed, for this Jordan Poyer is ever grateful to her!