Michael Dwumfour Bio
Michael Dwumfour (born January 1, 1998) is an American professional football defensive tackle who currently plays in the United Football League for the St. Louis Battlehawks. Born in Scotch Plains, New Jersey, Dwumfour played college football at the University of Michigan and Rutgers University before entering the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2021. Throughout his professional career, Dwumfour has been a journeyman along the defensive line, having appeared on rosters for the New York Jets, Houston Texans, San Francisco 49ers, Cleveland Browns, Tennessee Titans, Chicago Bears, and Denver Broncos. He has also transitioned to the UFL following his time in the NFL.
Early Life and Background
Michael Dwumfour was born on January 1, 1998, in Scotch Plains, New Jersey. He is of Ghanaian descent, which connects him to his heritage. Dwumfour began his high school career at Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School, where he played alongside future NFL player Rashan Gary. Both players would later transfer to different schools, with Gary moving to Paramus Catholic High School while Dwumfour enrolled at DePaul Catholic High School in New Jersey.
At DePaul Catholic, Dwumfour established himself as a promising defensive end. During his junior season, he recorded 42 tackles and three quarterback sacks. As a senior, he improved those numbers to 55 tackles and seven sacks. His standout high school performance earned him a three-star prospect rating from ESPN, Rivals.com, and Scout.com. Following his graduation, Dwumfour committed to play college football at the University of Michigan.
Path to Professional Football
Michael Dwumfour arrived at the University of Michigan in 2016 as a defensive lineman for the Wolverines. As a true freshman, he appeared in only one game, the season-opener against Hawaii. His role expanded during his sophomore year when he played in nine games, recording four tackles and one sack. His junior season saw him become a more significant contributor, as he started two of the 13 games he played in and posted 21 tackles, one interception, and three sacks.
During his senior season in 2019, Dwumfour played in ten games with two starts, making nine tackles and one sack. Seeking a fresh start for his final year of college eligibility, he transferred to Rutgers University for the 2020 season. At Rutgers, Dwumfour started eight games at defensive tackle and recorded 25 tackles, earning honorable mention All-Big Ten recognition. His productive college career concluded with experience at both major programs in the Big Ten Conference.
Michael Dwumfour Career
New York Jets (2021)
After going unselected in the 2021 NFL Draft, Michael Dwumfour signed with the New York Jets as an undrafted free agent. He had an impressive showing during the first preseason game against the New York Giants, which drew attention from coaches and scouts. However, Dwumfour suffered an injury during the preseason that led to his release with an injury settlement shortly afterward, ending his tenure with the Jets before the regular season began.
Houston Texans (2021–2022)
Following his release from the Jets, Dwumfour was signed to the Houston Texans practice squad on October 13, 2021. He was elevated to the active roster on December 25 and made his NFL debut in a game against the Los Angeles Chargers, where he recorded a half-sack. He finished his rookie season appearing in three games and recording five tackles. Dwumfour signed a reserve/future contract with the Texans on January 11, 2022, securing his spot for the following season.
During the 2022 season, Dwumfour continued his role with the Texans defense. On October 12, 2022, he was placed on injured reserve, which sidelined him for several weeks. He was activated from injured reserve on November 19 but was waived on December 7, ending his second season with the team.
San Francisco 49ers (2022)
On December 13, 2022, Dwumfour was signed to the San Francisco 49ers practice squad, joining the team late in the season. This move provided him with an opportunity to continue his NFL career with a franchise known for its strong defensive line.
Cleveland Browns (2023)
On February 7, 2023, Dwumfour signed a reserve/futures contract with the Cleveland Browns, indicating the team saw potential in his development. He competed for a spot on the defensive line during training camp and the preseason. However, he was waived on August 28, 2023, during final roster cuts, ending his time with the Browns.
Tennessee Titans (2023)
On August 16, 2023, Dwumfour was signed by the Tennessee Titans, providing him with another opportunity in the NFL. He was waived on August 29 during roster reductions but was re-signed to the Titans practice squad to continue his tenure with the organization. He remained on the practice squad until September 19, 2023, when he was released.
Houston Texans (Second Stint, 2023)
Dwumfour returned to the Houston Texans on September 27, 2023, signing with their practice squad for his second stint with the franchise. This reunion provided him with an opportunity to re-establish himself within a familiar defensive system. He was released on October 24, 2023.
Chicago Bears (2023–2024)
On November 21, 2023, Dwumfour was signed to the Chicago Bears practice squad, marking another chapter in his NFL journey. He demonstrated enough during his time on the practice squad to earn a reserve/future contract on January 8, 2024. This contract indicated the Bears’ interest in developing him further for the 2024 season. However, Dwumfour was waived on August 26, 2024, during the preseason, concluding his time with the Bears.
St. Louis Battlehawks (2024–2026)
On November 14, 2024, Dwumfour signed with the St. Louis Battlehawks of the United Football League, transitioning from the NFL to the spring professional football league. This move represented a new chapter in his professional football career, providing him with an opportunity to continue playing at a high level. On January 14, 2026, Dwumfour was selected by the St. Louis Battlehawks in the UFL player draft, indicating the team’s continued interest in his services. He was later released on March 19, 2026.
Cleveland Browns (Second Stint, 2024)
On December 6, 2024, Dwumfour returned to the Cleveland Browns, signing with their practice squad for his second stint with the franchise. This brief return to the NFL provided him with another opportunity to contribute at the professional level.
San Francisco 49ers (Second Stint, 2025)
On August 7, 2025, Dwumfour signed with the San Francisco 49ers for his second stint with the organization. However, his tenure was short-lived, as he was waived on August 14, 2025, just one week after joining the team.
Denver Broncos (2025)
On August 20, 2025, Dwumfour was signed by the Denver Broncos, providing him with yet another opportunity in the NFL. Unfortunately, he was waived just five days later on August 25, 2025, ending his brief stint with the Broncos.
Playing Style and Strengths
Michael Dwumfour plays the defensive tackle position, primarily lining up in the interior of the defensive line. His experience at both Michigan and Rutgers provided him with versatility to play multiple techniques along the defensive front. His college career showed improvement each season, particularly in his ability to pressure the quarterback, as evidenced by his multiple-sack seasons. His brief NFL appearances demonstrated his ability to contribute on special teams and as a rotational interior defender. His journey through multiple NFL organizations reflects his persistence and ability to adapt to different defensive schemes.
Notable Moments and Career Path
Throughout his career, Dwumfour has demonstrated resilience by continuing to pursue opportunities in professional football despite numerous roster changes. His debut game against the Los Angeles Chargers in 2021, where he recorded his first NFL half-sack, represents a milestone in his professional career. His transition from the NFL to the UFL with the St. Louis Battlehawks shows his adaptability and commitment to continuing his football career at the professional level.
Michael Dwumfour Career Statistics
Michael Dwumfour appeared in multiple NFL games across his tenure with several organizations, contributing primarily as a rotational defensive tackle. His professional career statistics reflect his role as a depth player along the defensive line.
| Season | Team | Games | Total Tackles | Sacks | Fumble Recoveries |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | Houston Texans | 3 | 5 | 0.5 | 0 |
| 2022 | Houston Texans | Limited by injury | Limited by injury | 0 | 0 |
| 2023 | Multiple Teams | Multiple | 8 | 0 | 1 |
Michael Dwumfour Family
Family Background and Heritage
Michael Dwumfour is of Ghanaian descent, which connects him to his West African roots. His family background has been a source of pride throughout his life and football career. Growing up in Scotch Plains, New Jersey, Dwumfour was part of a community that supported his athletic development from an early age.
Personal Life
Dwumfour maintains a presence on social media, where he connects with fans and shares aspects of his football journey. His professional career has been characterized by frequent moves between teams, a common experience for NFL players seeking to establish themselves in the league. He continues to pursue opportunities in professional football, demonstrating dedication to his craft.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season marked a transitional period in Michael Dwumfour’s professional football career. He began the year with the Cleveland Browns practice squad in December 2024 before joining the San Francisco 49ers in August 2025. Despite signing with the 49ers, he was waived just one week later, reflecting the competitive nature of NFL roster decisions. Dwumfour then signed with the Denver Broncos on August 20, 2025, but was waived five days later, concluding his NFL opportunities for the season.
Throughout his NFL career, Dwumfour has demonstrated the ability to earn roster spots and practice squad positions through his performance in tryouts and preseason games. His transition to the UFL with the St. Louis Battlehawks provided him with additional opportunities to play at a professional level. The Battlehawks selected him in the UFL draft in January 2026, indicating continued interest in his abilities as a defensive tackle.
Dwumfour’s career path exemplifies the challenges faced by undrafted free agents seeking to establish themselves in professional football. His persistence in continuing his career across multiple leagues and organizations reflects his dedication to the sport. As he continues his career with the St. Louis Battlehawks in the UFL, Dwumfour remains focused on contributing as a defensive tackle and pursuing opportunities for advancement in professional football.