From pom-poms to pigskin, Isabelle Sewell’s journey alongside Detroit Lions‘ star tackle Penei Sewell is a touchdown of its own. This dynamic duo has been turning heads both on and off the field, proving that behind every great man is an even greater woman – or in this case, a former college cheerleader with a mean fitness game.
Isabelle Ford, now Sewell, first cartwheeled into Penei’s life during their University of Oregon days. A 2018 graduate of the University of Portland, Isabelle traded in her pompoms for protein shakes, becoming a fitness enthusiast who often shares videos on shakes and fitness tips. Their love story kicked off in early 2020, just as Penei was gearing up to tackle the NFL. On April 9, 2020, Isabelle shared their first public photo on Instagram, a beachside snapshot that hinted at the adventures to come.
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From college sweethearts to NFL power couple
When Penei made his NFL debut in 2021, Isabelle was his cheerleader, posting on Instagram: “First NFL game in the books and I couldn’t be more proud!! You amaze me every day with your motivation, resilience and pure love for the game you play. I love getting to watch you do what you love, and I wouldn’t trade it for the world.”
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But these lovebirds weren’t content with just touchdowns and tailgates. They decided to form their little team. In November 2022, they welcomed their first child, Malakai. Isabelle shared the news with the world, gushing, “Mommy and daddy love you so much, you are our whole world.” Fast forward to April 15, 2024, and baby girl Mila Belle joined the family, completing their perfect little family.
The couple’s commitment to each other grew stronger with time. In April 2023, Penei got down on one knee and proposed to Isabelle. She announced their engagement on Instagram, captioning a photo with “a year from today 💍”, hinting at their future wedding plans.
On July 13, 2024, Penei and Isabelle said “I do” in a private ceremony in Malibu, California. It was a star-studded affair with Lions’ running back Jahmyr Gibbs catching Penei’s smooth moves on the dance floor. Who knew offensive tackles could cut a rug? Even Penei’s teammate Jared Goff and his wife Christen Harper joined the celebration, with Christen sharing glimpses of the picturesque mountain views and tables adorned with white roses and gold silverware.
Balancing family life in the NFL spotlight
But it’s not all glitz and glamour for the Sewells. They’re tackling parenthood like pros, sharing snippets of their life on social media. From Malakai’s first birthday bash to the kids’ baptism at St. Pius X Catholic Church, they’re scoring major points in the parenting game.
Penei’s appreciation for his better half is as clear as a perfect spiral. On Mother’s Day, he posted a heartfelt message: “Thank you for everything and all that you do. You are amazing and the best mother to our kids. I love watching us all grow together but I need time to slow down fr. I love you .” Who knew a 6’5″, 330-pound offensive tackle could be such a softie?
Isabelle, now 24, has embraced her role as an NFL wife and mom with the grace of a seasoned pro. She’s a fixture in the stands, cheering on her man with their little ones in tow. After the 2023-24 season, she posted a message that would make even the toughest linebacker tear up: “What a season 💙 It may not have turned out the way we hoped but I am so proud of you and all you accomplished this season!! Your next level dedication, leadership, and drive all while being the best dad and partner is truly amazing.”
As Penei continues to dominate on the field, making back-to-back Pro Bowls and earning First Team All-Pro honors, Isabelle is his MVP off the gridiron. She’s been by his side through every career milestone, including his recent contract extension that made him the highest-paid offensive lineman in the league. Together, they’re proving that with the right teammate, you can have it all – a thriving career, a loving family, and a highlight reel full of precious moments.
As Isabelle put it when Penei turned 23 in October 2023, “This past year was such a special one, and I can’t wait to see what this one has in store. I can’t wait to continue to make amazing memories with you for the rest of our lives.” Now that’s what we call a power play!
Written by
Edited by
Aazima Basharat