In this episode, Tevaun sits down with Jaleel Johnson — former Iowa Hawkeye star, NFL defensive tackle, and longtime college roommate. From the grind of Big Ten football to the intensity of Sundays in the NFL, Jaleel shares what it really takes to perform at the highest level — and the lessons that stick long after the final whistle.
As college roommates, Tevaun and Jaleel swap stories you won’t hear anywhere else — like the time they showed up late to workouts and paid the price with endless prowler pushes. Beyond the laughs, they reflect on the brotherhood built at Iowa and why Hawkeyes earn so much respect in the NFL.
💥 You’ll learn:
• What it’s like to go from Iowa City to the NFL trenches 🏈
• The behind-the-scenes grind of being a college athlete — from 5 a.m. lifts to game day Saturdays
• Why Iowa’s culture creates some of the most respected players in the league
• Jaleel’s biggest lessons from his NFL career and life after football
• Stories of accountability, resilience, and brotherhood that shaped who he is today
This isn’t just about football — it’s about friendship, growth, and the lifelong impact of the Hawkeye family.
👀 Watch until the end to hear Jaleel’s advice for young athletes chasing their dreams and building character along the way.
🔗 Connect with Jaleel Johnson:
Instagram: @leel.lxvii
🔗 Connect with The Front Seat:
Instagram: @frontseatpod
TikTok: @thefrontseatpodcast
🔗 Connect with Tevaun Smith (Host):
Instagram: @smittie4
Linkme: link.me/iamtevaun
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