J Leman was born and raised in Champaign, Illinois. He played many sports, but he excelled at football. He attended the University of Illinois on a football scholarship. J became an All-American linebacker for the Fighting Illini, and led them to the Rose Bowl in his senior season. After college, J married his college sweetheart Katy and pursued his childhood dream of playing in the NFL. J has played for the Carolina Panthers, Philadelphia Eagles, San Diego Chargers, and currently plays for the Minnesota Vikings. The son of two pastors and a spirit-filled Christian, J has relied on playing and living in the Holy Spirit's power to tackle all that life and football throw at him.