The presence of British players in the NFL is growing, with a number of talented athletes making their mark on the American game.
While some have had to overcome immense challenges to get to the top, they are now a source of pride for fans in the UK.
The growth of the sport in the UK is a major factor in the rise of British players in the NFL.
With the International Player Pathway Programme and the NFL Academy providing a clear pathway for young athletes, it is clear that the future of the sport is bright in the UK.
The active British players in the NFL
Who are the active British players in the NFL?
📲 Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
Jermaine Eluemunor (Offensive Lineman)
Born in London, Jermaine Eluemunor has been a successful player in the NFL for several years.
The 30-year-old offensive lineman signed a two-year, $14 million deal with the New York Giants in the recent off-season.
Efe Obada (Defensive End)
The 33-year-old defensive end was born in Nigeria but moved to London at a young age.
Efe Obada has played for a number of teams in the NFL and is still a productive player for the Washington Commanders.
David Ojabo (Linebacker)
David Ojabo moved to Scotland at the age of seven and later to the United States.
The 25-year-old linebacker was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens and is still with the team.
Jamie Gillan (Punter)
Nicknamed the "Scottish Hammer," Jamie Gillan is a talented punter from Scotland.
The 28-year-old plays for the New York Giants and has been a reliable performer for the team for a number of seasons.
Graham Gano (Kicker)
A Scottish-born placekicker, Graham Gano has been a professional in the NFL for a number of years.
The 38-year-old plays for the New York Giants and is a two-time Pro Bowl selection.
Graham Gano Giants
Getty Images
The rise of British talent in the NFL
The rise of British players in the NFL is a clear indication of the growth of the sport in the UK.
The NFL International Player Pathway Programme has been a major factor in the rise of players like Efe Obada, who have used the program to secure a place on an NFL roster.
The story of Louis Rees-Zammit, a former Welsh rugby player who recently gave up on his NFL dream to return to rugby, is also an important part of the narrative.
His high-profile attempt to make it in the NFL shows the immense challenges that British athletes face when trying to make the transition.
Similarly, Travis Clayton, an English offensive lineman who was drafted in 2024, was recently waived by the Buffalo Bills.
While a setback, his journey shows that a draft pick does not guarantee a spot in the NFL.
However, as more players make it, the pathway to the NFL will become clearer, and the dream of playing American football will be a reality for more and more British players.
MORE NFL NEWS: