Jamaicans love sports activities, particularly monitor & area and “soccer”—which is called soccer in america. American soccer has by no means been a serious sport on the island, and till lately, you couldn’t discover any organized American football leagues in Jamaica. Regardless of this, a number of Jamaicans have made a reputation for themselves within the NFL. The primary Jamaican-born participant to succeed in the league was Craig Bingham, who performed for the Pittsburgh Steelers within the Nineteen Eighties. However on the subject of Tremendous Bowl success, one Jamaican stands above the remainder—Patrick Chung.
Patrick Chung: The Most Embellished Jamaican in NFL Historical past
Patrick Chung, born in Kingston, Jamaica, is the Jamaican with essentially the most Tremendous Bowl rings, having gained three championships with the New England Patriots. After shifting to america as a baby, he performed faculty soccer on the College of Oregon earlier than being drafted by the Patriots within the second spherical of the 2009 NFL Draft. Over his 12-season profession, Chung grew to become a key a part of the Patriots’ protection, identified for his versatility, hard-hitting tackles, and management. His Tremendous Bowl victories in 2015, 2017, and 2019 cemented his place in NFL historical past.
Different Jamaicans with Tremendous Bowl Rings
Chung isn’t the one Jamaican to style Tremendous Bowl glory. Rohan Davey, a former quarterback, gained two Tremendous Bowls as Tom Brady’s backup with the Patriots within the early 2000s. Kevin Boothe, an offensive lineman born to Jamaican dad and mom, gained two Tremendous Bowl rings with the New York Giants in 2008 and 2012. Defensive stars like Dwight Freeney and Ndamukong Suh, who’ve Jamaican roots, have additionally gained Tremendous Bowls throughout their careers.
Craig Bingham: The Pioneer of Jamaicans within the NFL
Earlier than Chung, Davey, Suh or Boothe, there was Craig Bingham. Born in Kingston, Bingham made historical past as the primary Jamaican to play within the NFL. He was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1982 and in addition had a stint with the San Diego Chargers. Whereas his profession didn’t embrace any Tremendous Bowl wins, he paved the best way for future generations of Jamaican-born and Jamaican-descended athletes in American soccer.
Jamaican Affect on the NFL
Whereas American soccer stays a distinct segment sport in Jamaica, the success of gamers like Chung, Davey, Boothe, and others has impressed curiosity within the recreation amongst younger athletes. With extra publicity and coaching alternatives, maybe we’ll see much more Jamaican-born gamers making an influence within the NFL sooner or later.
Photograph – Deposit Photos, Patrick Chung
