J. R. Tavai

John Robert Tavai (born September 23, 1993) is a professional gridiron football defensive lineman for the BC Lions of the Canadian Football League (CFL). He played college football at Southern California. He was signed by Tennessee Titans as an undrafted free agent in 2015.
Professional career.
Tennessee Titans.
After going unselected in the 2015 NFL Draft, Tavai signed with the Tennessee Titans on May 11, 2015. On September 5, he was waived for final roster cuts. On November 11, 2015, he was signed to the practice squad. On December 12, 2015, he was promoted to the active roster.
On September 2, 2016, he was released by the Titans as part of final roster cuts. He was signed to the practice squad on December 6, 2016.
Ottawa Redblacks.
On January 3, 2018, it was announced that Tavai had signed with the Ottawa Redblacks. Over two seasons, he played in 22 regular season games, recording 57 defensive tackles, eight special teams tackles, seven sacks and four forced fumbles.
BC Lions.
Upon entering free agency on February 11, 2020, Tavai signed with the BC Lions to a one-year contract. He signed a one-year contract extension on January 12, 2021.
Personal life.
Tavai is of Samoan descent. His younger brother Jahlani, played football at Hawaii and was drafted by the Detroit Lions in the 2nd round of the 2019 NFL Draft. His other younger brother Justus also plays for Hawaii. His uncle, John Schuster is a former rugby union player who represented New Zealand as a member of the All Blacks.