NEWPORT BEACH, CA — There is nothing minor about the way Orange County is about to celebrate the very last player selected in the 2025 NFL Draft. Kobee Minor, pick #257 by the New England Patriots, and dubbed "Mr. Irrelevant" is about to become the most celebrated single player in the NFL.
This is the 50th Mr. Irrelevant year, with the Texas Tech and Memphis alumni enjoying the spotlight of one of the weirdest sports victories celebrated in the United States. In 2025, this milestone year not only celebrates the perseverance and potential of Minor but also spotlights one of Irrelevant Week’s most meaningful events—the Lowsman Banquet, hosted by the Orange County Youth Sports Foundation (OCYSF). The Irrelevant Week honors perseverance and community and was founded in 1976 by former NFL receiver Paul Salata.
Some events are inside jokes, while others honor that fighting spirit of never, ever giving up.
Starting Thursday, "Kickoff with Kobee!" at the Balboa Yacht Club, the venue for the big party where Minor will have the opportunity to meet former NFL Players, past 22 Mr. Irrelevent winners, and John Ireland, a radio sports show host and Los Angeles Lakers broadcaster. Sure, the event will likely turn into a roast, but Minor will get some other California dreaming experiences while he visits.
He'll learn how to surf, sail in a regatta with Newport Beach Junior Lifeguards, enjoy a luncheon with past Mr. Irrelevants, and spend a day at Disneyland, likely with a spot in the parade.
Thursday, June 26: Meet and greet the Newport Beach Junior Guards. Sailing regatta followed by a BBQ at the Balboa Yacht Club
Friday, June 27: VIP Luncheon with past Mr. Irrelevants. Celebrate 50 years of Mr. Irrelevant at the Lowsman Banquet presented by Orange County Youth Sports Foundation at the Balboa Bay Resort beginning at 5 p.m.
Saturday, June 28: Surfing on 30th Street in Newport Beach at 9 a.m. followed by a BBQ. Return to the NB Peninsula for a Night Out around Newport, visiting local eateries and hangout spots beginning at 5 p.m.
Sunday, June 29: Sunday Service at Mariners Church in Irvine, followed by a day at Disneyland.
Monday, June 30: Visit FOX Sports for a segment on the studio lot.
*Note: These events are subject to change.
Melanie Salata-Fitch, CEO of Irrelevant Week and the daughter of the founder, spoke at the event about what it means to her family.
“The Lowsman Banquet has always been a cornerstone event of Irrelevant Week,” Salata-Fitch said. “With OCYSF hosting the event this year, it brings the celebration full circle—honoring Kobee Minor while uplifting the youth athletes my father was so passionate about.”
When asked how he felt about being the last man standing, he had this to say.