Notre Dame DE Javontae Jean-Baptiste testing at NFL combine despite brutal food poisoning symptoms

Former Notre Dame Fighting Irish defensive end Javontae Jean-Baptiste might not be at 100 percent while participating in the on-the-field exercises at the 2024 NFL Combine. According to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, the former Fighting Irish defensive star has been battling a bad case of food poisoning.

“Notre Dame DE Javontae Jean-Baptiste spent last night and this morning dealing with food poisoning, throwing up until 10 am. He hydrated all morning, and ate at noon after going 24 hours without food. Yet wanted to be out here testing,” said Rapoport via X.

Food poisoning or not, Jean-Baptiste is not allowing that to slow him down and showcase what he has to offer at the next level. In fact, in his first 40-yard dash attempt, the former Notre Dame pass rush artist clocked an impressive 4.66.

It is unclear whether Jean-Baptiste will participate in the rest of the on-field activities; it remains to be seen. But so far, he is off to a fast start, regardless of his condition.

Jean-Baptiste played one season at Notre Dame after transferring into the program from Ohio State. With the Buckeyes, he saw limited action in his first three years but was a solid fixture in their defensive line rotation in his final year at Ohio State in 2022. Jean-Baptiste finishes four years in Columbus, OH, with 51 total tackles, 25 solo tackles, 10 tackles for loss, eight sacks, and a forced fumble and fumble recovery apiece.

Surprisingly enough, his stats from his one season at Notre Dame were on par with those at Ohio State. With the Fighting Irish, Jean Baptiste would go on to have 49 total tackles, 21 solo tackles, 10.5 tackles for a loss, five sacks, and another forced fumble to go along with a fumble recovery.

Jean-Baptiste’s impressive play during Notre Dame’s 2023 campaign ultimately earned him an invitation to the Reese’s Senior Bowl in January. It was there that NFL scouts got an opportunity to see what he could do firsthand. And to most reports, Jean-Baptiste did just that, impressing scouts during one-on-ones at practice.