The Nationwide Soccer League (NFL) has lengthy been dominated by American-born gamers, however worldwide expertise continues to make an influence. Amongst foreign-born gamers, Jamaica ranks third in illustration, following Canada and Germany.
Jamaicans have been a part of the NFL for many years, with Craig Bingham being the primary Jamaican-born participant drafted into the league in 1982. Since then, greater than 40 gamers born in Jamaica have performed within the NFL, showcasing their athleticism and dedication on the sphere.
Patrick Chung: A Tremendous Bowl Champion
Probably the most profitable Jamaican-born gamers in NFL historical past is Patrick Chung. Born in Kingston, Chung performed as a defensive again and was a key contributor to the New England Patriots’ protection. He received three Tremendous Bowl rings throughout his profession, cementing his legacy as one of many high Jamaican-born gamers in NFL historical past.
The Development of Worldwide Gamers within the NFL
The NFL has made efforts to recruit extra worldwide gamers via initiatives just like the International Player Pathway (IPP) program, which began in 2017. This program helps non-American gamers develop their expertise and earn alternatives to play within the league.
Whereas the NFL has the bottom share of foreign-born gamers amongst main North American sports activities leagues, Jamaica’s constant presence within the league proves that the island continues to supply top-tier athletes.
Listing of Jamaican-Born Gamers within the NFL
Here’s a checklist of all Jamaican-born gamers who’ve competed within the NFL:
- Danielle Hunter (DE, St. Catherine)
- Corey Ballentine (CB, Montego Bay)
- Matt Peart (OL, Kingston)
- Nevin Lawson (CB, Kingston)
- Patrick Chung (DB, Kingston)
- Orlando Franklin (RT, Kingston)
- Darrell Williams (T, Kingston)
- Kenrick Ellis (DL)
- Oniel Cousins (T)
- Trevardo Williams (OLB)
- Vaughn Martin (DT)
- Atari Bigby (DB)
- Jovan Haye (DE, Mandeville)
- Ryan McBean (DT, Kingston)
- Damion McIntosh (T, Kingston)
- Morlon Greenwood (LB, Kingston)
- Kwame Harris (T)
- Daren Stone (DB, St. James)
- Khreem Smith (DE, St. James)
- Omar Simple (FB, Spanish City)
- Dwight Anderson (DB, Spanish City)
- Roger Knight (LB, St. Ann’s)
- Andre King (WR, Kingston)
- Rohan Davey (QB, Clarendon)
- Dahrran Diedrick (RB, St. Anne’s)
- Ian Good (RB, Kingston)
- Kevin McLeod (FB, Montego Bay)
- Omar Smith (C, Spanish City)
- Floyd Wedderburn (G, Kingston)
- Lloyd Harrison (DB, Kingston)
- Fearon Wright (LB)
- Ricardo McDonald (LB, Kingston)
- Chris Hewitt (DB, Kingston)
- Andrew Greene (G, Kingston)
- Mark Campbell (DT)
- Sean Jones (DE, Kingston)
- Devon McDonald (OLB, Kingston)
- Chris Samuels (RB, Montego Bay)
- Devon Mitchell (DB, Kingston)
- Craig Bingham (LB, Kingston)
- Donovan Small (DB, Kingston)
- Dwight Bingham (DE, Kingston)
Jamaica continues to depart its mark on the NFL, producing proficient gamers who excel on the highest stage. Because the league expands its world attain, extra Jamaican-born athletes might discover themselves enjoying skilled soccer sooner or later.
Images – Deposit Photos
