2ndLt Rayuan Lane III Makes Jaguars Roster, Balancing Pro Football and Marine Corps Service
2ndLt Rayuan Lane III has earned a spot on the Jacksonville Jaguars 53-man roster—but making it to the NFL is only part of his story. A 2025 U.S. Naval Academy graduate and newly commissioned officer in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves, Lane represents the kind of total commitment that is at the heart of the Marine Corps ethos.
Before his time at the Naval Academy, Lane attended Gilman School in Baltimore, Maryland, where he was a standout three-sport athlete. He earned varsity letters in basketball (three), football (two), and track and field (three), and garnered 2019 All-MIAA honors in football.
Drafted in the sixth round (200th overall), Lane invested years of hard work, discipline, and leadership—both on the field and in uniform.
Built for the Long Game
At the Naval Academy, Lane started 43 consecutive games at safety—the longest active streak in the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision for his position at the time. Over his collegiate career, he totaled 244 tackles, 21 passes defensed, eight forced fumbles, seven interceptions (two returned for touchdowns), and three fumble recoveries.
In 2024, he was named first team All-American Athletic Conference, finishing third on the team in tackles and leading in both forced fumbles and pass breakups. His ability to stay consistent and productive season after season says a lot about his physical and mental toughness.
Commissioned to Lead
In May 2025, Lane was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Marine Corps Reserves, choosing to serve his country while pursuing a professional football career.
It’s not a typical path—but then again, Lane’s not your typical athlete. He majored in quantitative economics at the Academy and stood out not just as a player, but as a leader among his peers.
His journey is a powerful reminder that leadership doesn’t just happen in one space. Whether it’s in the locker room, on the field, or with Marines, Lane brings the same drive, discipline, and sense of responsibility.
A Living Example of Marine Corps Total Fitness
Lane’s story touches all four pillars of Marine Corps Total Fitness:
- Physical Fitness: He’s trained at the highest levels—from the Naval Academy to the NFL—proving what consistent effort and recovery can do.
- Mental Fitness: Juggling academic, athletic, and military demands takes serious mental resilience and focus.
- Social Fitness: Lane has been a trusted leader on every team, building strong bonds, and earning respect.
- Spiritual Fitness: His dedication to something greater than himself—team, Corps, and country—shows his strong values and purpose.
Looking Ahead
Making an NFL roster is no small feat. Doing it while serving as a Marine speaks volumes about Lane’s character and drive. His story is one of balance, purpose, and leadership—core to what Marine Corps Total Fitness is all about.
Marine Corps Community Services congratulates 2ndLt Lane on this outstanding milestone. We’re proud to see him thrive and look forward to seeing what he accomplishes next—on the field and in service to our nation.
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