Born: August 12, 1998- Columbus, Georgia
Entering 2026:  Years as a Lion: 1st  Years in CFL: 1st   Status: American
Career Games: 0   Playoffs: 0   Grey Cup: 0

Acquired:

Essang was signed as a free agent by the Lions on April 2, 2026.

Highlights:

2024-25: Essang had training camp stints with the Detroit Lions and Washington Commanders in 2024 and 2025, respectively.

2022-23: Began his third NFL season with a return to the Broncos, appearing in 14 games with 15 combined tackles. After being waived in October 2023, Essang returned to the Chargers and suited up in 11 games with 13 combined tackles.

2020-21: Essang signed with the Denver Broncos as an undrafted free agent on April 25, 2020. He suited up in 12 games as a rookie, recording his first career interception off of Taysom Hill in a game against New Orleans, while finishing the campaign with 23 combined tackles. After beginning 2021 on injured reserve, Essang was activated by the Broncos on November 13 and waived on December 18. The Los Angeles Chargers claimed him off waivers on December 20.

College:

2016-19: Essang suited up with the Wake Forest Demon Deacons for 52 games and registered 228 total tackles (162 solo, 66 assisted), 50 pass knockdowns, five interceptions, three fumble recoveries and one sack. After playing in all 13 games as a true freshman in 2016, Essang recorded a fumble in the Military Bowl against Temple. As a junior in 2018, his five pass breakups against Syracuse were the second-highest single-game total in program history.