T. J. Pesefea

Tautala "TJ" Pesefea Jr. (born June 25, 2000) is an American professional football defensive tackle. He played college football for American River and Arizona State. He began his professional career with the Cincinnati Bengals of the National Football League (NFL) as an undrafted free agent in 2023.

Early life Pesefea was born in Sacramento, California. He attended Foothill High School where at and , he was a two-sport athlete, playing basketball and football. In football, he played tight end and defensive end with the Foothill Mustangs. Pesefea graduated in 2018 and was rated a three-star collegiate recruiting prospect.

College career Pesefea first enrolled at American River College where he played in nine games during the 2018 season alongside the American River Beavers. He finished his first season of college football with 17 tackles. While at Arizona State, he majored in liberal studies.

St. Louis Battlehawks On August 14, 2024, Pesefea signed with the St. Louis Battlehawks of the United Football League (UFL).

Orlando Storm On January 14, 2026, Pesefea was selected by the Orlando Storm in the 2026 UFL Draft, reuniting with his head coach from the Battlehawks, Anthony Becht. He was released on March 12.

Personal life Pesefea is third of four children born to Tautala Pesefea Sr. and Annie Chang. He has a brother named Nick Pesefea-Chang. At eight years of age, Pesefea was run over by a car. During his high school years, Pensefea's survival story gained him Most Inspirational Player of the Year.