Jessie comes from humble beginnings. Raised in Tampa, Florida by a single mother of three, life was never easy. At a young age Jessie was confronted with vice and crime that could have led him astray.

Many of his childhood neighbors found themselves in prison or the grave before the age of 25. Jessie on the other hand made a decision to trek a different path. He fell in love with sports and made it his goal to excel and find a way out of the trap. Not knowing his father, he gravitated to strong men in the community. He sought guidance and instruction for life. His choices paid off.

Jessie graduated High School and enrolled into the University of South Florida to remain close to home. He joined the football team and continued pursuing his dream.