Move over, Lions fans! There’s a new dynamic duo stealing hearts in Detroit, and they’re not even old enough to tackle. Meet Malakai and Mila Sewell, the adorable offspring of Lions‘ star tackle Penei Sewell and his wife Isabelle. These cute powerhouses are quickly becoming the MVPs of the Sewell household.

Malakai burst onto the scene in November 2022, just as his dad was hitting his stride in the NFL. This little guy didn’t waste any time becoming a fan favorite. From rocking miniature Lions gear to cheering dad on from the stands, Malakai’s game-day appearances are almost as anticipated as Penei’s plays. In fact, on April 5, 2024, Isabelle was spotted pointing out Penei to Malakai as Dad threw out the first pitch at Comerica Park.

On Malakai’s first birthday, proud Papa Penei took to Instagram, gushing, “I can’t believe you are 1… Watching you grow everyday fills my heart with lots of love and happiness. I am and will forever be thankful/blessed to be your dada.” Isabelle chimed in with her heartfelt tribute: “How has it been a whole year? Happy 1st birthday my sweet boy! Watching you grow into your adorable, happy, silly and sweet personality has been the biggest blessing.”

But Malakai’s reign as an only child was short-lived. Enter Mila Belle Sewell, born April 15, 2024. This little lady wasted no time capturing hearts. Isabelle shared the news on Instagram, writing, “Our sweet girl, you are so perfect… mommy, daddy and Malakai love you so much. You are everything we needed and more.” Talk about a warm welcome!

The Sewell squad isn’t just about football and diapers, though. These parents are all about creating meaningful moments. Case in point: the kids’ baptism at St. Pius X Catholic Church. Isabelle’s Instagram post captured the significance: “May this day live forever in your hearts and may God’s love, joy, and peace fill you through all of your tomorrows.” Now that’s what you call a touchdown of a different kind. And let’s not forget about Bruno, the family dog introduced in September 2021, who’s been there to welcome both human additions to the pack!

Life off the field for the Sewells

You might think juggling a pro football career and two kids under two would be tougher than facing a 300-pound linebacker. But Penei and Isabelle make it look like child’s play. Their love story is as heartwarming as their parenting journey. The couple met at the University of Oregon, where Isabelle was a cheerleader who graduated in 2018. They went public with their relationship in April 2020, sharing a beachside photo that hinted at the adventures to come.

Penei popped the question in April 2023, and the couple tied the knot in a picture-perfect Malibu ceremony on July 13, 2024. Talk about a whirlwind romance! The wedding was a star-studded affair, with Lions’ running back Jahmyr Gibbs catching Penei’s smooth moves on the dance floor. Who knew offensive tackles had such rhythm? Jared Goff’s wife, Christen Harper, shared glimpses of the gorgeous setting, including “tables covered in white roses and gold silverware.” It was a celebration fit for football royalty!

Isabelle’s not sidelined in this family lineup. Her social media offers a play-by-play of family life, from sweet sibling moments to the realities of parenting two under two. She even shared a candid post about the bittersweet feelings of Malakai becoming a big brother: “No one tells you how emotional it is knowing you only have a few months left with your first baby before they become a big sibling.”

As Penei continues to rack up accolades – he’s already made back-to-back Pro Bowls and earned First Team All-Pro honors – his most impressive stats might just be the ones he’s putting up at home. And let’s not forget his recent contract extension, making him the highest-paid offensive lineman in the league.

With Malakai and Mila in tow, the Sewells are proving that sometimes, the best plays in life happen off the field. As Isabelle put it after the 2023-24 season, “Your next level dedication, leadership, and drive all while being the best dad and partner is truly amazing.” Sounds like Penei’s got his home game strategy down pat, making Detroit not just his team’s home, but his family’s “forever home” too. As Penei himself said, “It’s a place that could be my forever home. And I’m so comfortable here, stay here in the offseasons. I don’t go nowhere.”

And for fans wanting even more of the Sewell family charm, keep an eye out for their YouTube channel, “Penei And Isabelle.” While it’s currently without content, it promises to be another window into the life of this football family that’s winning both on and off the field.