KJ Osborn is gathering significant attention with the New England Patriots in the NFL world! Drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 2020 as a 5th-round pick, he is now a free agent with the Patriots. And, the culmination of his NFL trajectory is largely a result of the hard work of his parents, especially his mother, Valerie Osborn.

Valerie gave birth to Kendrick KJ Osborn Jr. in June 1997 in Ypsilanti, Michigan. And, despite facing adversities, she faced the challenge of raising KJ as a single mother. When KJ was very young, the couple divorced. And, since then, Val took center stage in his life.

After her divorce from Kendrick Osborn Sr., Val worked tirelessly to provide for her children. Working two jobs at the same time did not deter her from attending school to practice the profession of a dental hygienist. And, indeed, it was very rewarding. Recalling those days, Osborn once remarked, “In middle school, my sister and I would help my mom clean a car dealership to pay our rent—sometimes after football games or after practice.” KJ Osborn since always has done his best to support his mother in all ways possible.

His parents divorced early on, and hence not much is known about KJ’s father, Kendrick Osborn Sr. He worked in the logistics and automotive supply chain industry as a tractor-trailer driver. His father’s role revolved around transporting automotive parts for well-known companies in the industry, like Ford, Tesla, and Chrysler.

His absence, however, did not deter Val and her kids from striving to sustain themselves.

KJ Osborn’s mother’s dedication to fighting the odds

When the financial strain was stretching too far, it became difficult for the family to pay rent. And Val had limited means to support her family. In such circumstances, they received assistance from organizations like The Salvation Army. Showing gratitude, Osbprn remarked, “Somebody blessed my family, so it’s only right that in my position, God has blessed me, and I bless somebody else.” He was referring to the incident when they were once saved from eviction as an anonymous donor walked into the apartment complex office to pay their rent.

Eventually, Valerie’s hard work paid off, as she became a dental hygienist. Seeing his mother’s efforts, and the intense dedication, KJ Osborn has learned to persevere despite anything. It is faith in his mother and God that has brought him to this juncture of life. “Continue to keep God first and He will bless you—I know that firsthand. Tough times don’t last. Tough people do,” learning from his mother, KJ reflected. Hence, through his NFL success, he wants to honor his mother.