Jack Lua, a 2025 high school commit, comes to the SDSU Aztec football team with a lot of motivation. 

At age five, Jack Lua learned about the game of football from his dad.

It is a fond memory for the 2025 commit out of Eleanor Roosevelt High School in the west part of Riverside, California.

His “pops,” as he lovingly refers to him, means the world to the young tight end. Jack’s father coached and was always there for him throughout his youth. Both his parents helped guide him to who he is today. But it’s the memory of his grandfather that truly motivates Jack Lua. “I’m still going for him every day,” Lua tells EVT this week.

Frank Padilla didn’t play pro football. He didn’t play in college. Jack’s grandpa loved sports, though, and studied them. His love of the sporting world went beyond football too as he would talk baseball, basketball, college ball, whatever was popular with his grandson. The two spent hours talking about sports. It is something that is very special to Jack Lua.

Sadly, Frank Padilla passed away three years ago and did not get to enjoy where Jack Lua is at this point in his career. I am sure he would be proud. His grandson is about to suit up and play Division 1 football.

Everything is coming fast for Lua as he received multiple offers to go to school. His grandfather is always deep in his thoughts. That will never go away. His grandpa taught Jack Lua the stiff arm that he uses today. His grandfather taught the young tight end one of his favorite moves on the football field when he has the ball in his hands.

Lua is clearly motivated, but his skill level is off the chart. There is an upside here—an NFL-type upside.

At 6-foot-5 and 230 lbs., Lua brings excellent size with him to the field. He is a fierce competitor and quite the handful to bring down while running in the open field. He isn’t a speed burner, but most tight ends are not considered fast. Lua does provide quick bursts and a knack for getting open. Then there is the run-blocking ability, which is phenomenal.

Jack Lua is considerate in life and a plus student. He maintains a 3.5 GPA and is a thinker on the football field. The intangibles are difficult to gauge, but he displays a lot of positive facets that are exciting to see at an early age. The Aztecs secured a quality talent that will be on The Mesa this fall.

Here are some questions for the young tight end who also played defensive end in high school. His athletic ability is terrific.

You had multiple offers. What about SDSU made you choose the school?

“Yes, I had five other offers. My top 3 were SDSU, New Mexico, and NAU. What ultimately made me choose SDSU was the relationships I had with the coaching staff and being able to stay home in California.”

Did you bond with the SDSU coaching staff? Who, in particular, did you vibe well with?

“I bonded with coach Lindley in the summer at the Redlands camp, and at their camp as well. I built our relationship from there and hope to keep it going.”

Describe your game to someone who has never seen you play.

“I am a true TE that can do it all in the run game and pass game. I’m not afraid to get dirty in 11/12 personnel, and I believe I’m athletic enough to stay in during 10 personnel. The film speaks for itself.”

How much do you enjoy the run-blocking aspect of being a tight end?

“I love the run blocking aspect. I love the physicality of the trenches. Excited to get to camp with SDSU and continue to build my game more.”

How did playing DE help you with your offensive game?

“It helped with the physicality of the game. In playing DE or TE you have to be physical and work in the trenches. Also, knowing the rules and responsibilities of a DE, I like to manipulate them and set them up with what we’re trying to achieve offensively.”

Any ambition to play DE in college? Did SDSU say it is possible?

“I am willing to play anywhere the team needs me. As of right now, I am coming in to play TE for the Aztecs.”

Where does your motivation come from when playing the game? 

“Motivation comes from making my family proud. They’ve sacrificed so much for me to get here so I want to continue to make them proud. It also comes from my grandpa, Frank, who sadly passed away three years ago. He is the person who taught me the basics of football, and we would talk about how far I can go with it. I am still going for him to this day. Also, to put on for my hometown Riverside California. I want to show the youth that you can do whatever you put your mind to as long as you work for it. My pops is also a great motivation for me, and he’s another reason why I love football. He introduced me to the sport when I was 5 years old and has been my coach every single one of those years except in high school.”

What do you need to work on most to get the most out of your opportunity at SDSU?

“I want to continue to put on more size and speed. I am 6-foot-5 and 235 lbs. right now, but I am looking forward to getting into the weight room and putting on that next level of strength.”

What do you feel is your biggest strength in the game?

“My biggest strength is being versatile in the run game and pass game. I can go block a defensive end one play, then the next go run and catch a ball on a linebacker or defensive back.”

What kind of goals do you have for the upcoming season?

“My biggest goal is to come in and help be a leader for the team in any way that I can. Whether that be special teams or scout team, I want to come in and help lead this team and culture to continued success at SDSU.”

What are your thoughts on San Diego and the SDSU campus? Did you enjoy the campus? 

“I love it here. I think San Diego has the best weather in the world. It has a beautiful campus and amazing facilities. I can’t wait to call it home.”

Any special message for the fans as they get to know you as a player?

“Aztec nation- I can’t wait to see you guys during camp and in Snapdragon Stadium this year! I want to thank all the fans who have shown love and support! I’m beyond excited to represent this team, wear this jersey, and give everything I have on and off the field.”

Here is a look at Jack Lua in action.

The strength of this young tight end is off the charts.

He is a problem when he has the ball and shows great hands. He will be a threat in the passing department.

On the run, he punishes his defender and easily handles large linemen. He will be tested at the collegiate level, but it appears that Lua is already ready to contribute in rushing situations this fall. He may take time to learn the offense, but do not put anything past this young tight end.

Coach Lewis and the SDSU coaching staff will get the most out of Lua in his time with the Aztecs. Keep an eye on this young player. There is a decent ceiling here, and his motivation comes from his heart. Jack Lua is playing for his grandfather’s memory. How could you root against someone like that?

James Clark

James was born and raised in America’s Finest City. He is a passionate baseball fan with even more passion towards his hometown Padres. James has written about the Padres and their prospects for over a decade. He also writes about San Diego State as well as other local sports. James is the Editor-In-Chief of EastVillageTimes.com. Always striving to bring you the highest quality in San Diego Sports News. Original content, with original ideas, that’s our motto. Enjoy.