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🏈 NFL International Games 2025: Predictions

May 5, 2025 by nflinlondon

The 2025 NFL season is going global like never before. With seven international games scheduled across five countries—Brazil, Germany, Spain, Ireland, and the United Kingdom—the league is deepening its international roots and giving fans around the world a front-row seat to America’s biggest sport.

While we know the home teams and locations, the visiting teams haven’t been officially announced yet. That hasn’t stopped football analysts Ryan and Wade from making bold predictions about who we might see in each matchup. Below is a breakdown of every confirmed game, including the pundits’ takes and key player storylines updated for the 2025 offseason.

🇧🇷 São Paulo, Brazil – LA Chargers (Home)

Venue: Neo Química Arena (Corinthians Arena)
Ryan’s pick: Washington Commanders
Wade’s pick: Houston Texans

This will be the NFL’s first-ever regular-season game in South America. Ryan predicts the Commanders will travel south, featuring second-year QB Jayden Daniels—an exciting face-off against Justin Herbert. Wade believes it’ll be the Houston Texans, led by C.J. Stroud, whose breakout 2023 season continues to fuel their rise as contenders.

🇩🇪 Berlin, Germany – Indianapolis Colts (Home)

Venue: Olympiastadion Berlin
Ryan’s pick: Las Vegas Raiders
Wade’s pick: Arizona Cardinals

Germany gets a new host city in Berlin, with the Colts bringing second-year QB Anthony Richardson to Europe. Ryan predicts a matchup with the Raiders, now starting Geno Smith after a surprising move from Seattle. Wade sees the Cardinals, featuring a healthy and retooled Kyler Murray, coming in as opponents.

🇪🇸 Madrid, Spain – Miami Dolphins (Home)

Venue: Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
Ryan’s pick: New Orleans Saints
Wade’s pick: Tampa Bay Buccaneers

In the NFL’s first game in Spain, Tua Tagovailoa and the Dolphins bring speed and style. Ryan imagines them facing the Saints, while Wade forecasts an in-state rivalry with the Buccaneers, anchored by Baker Mayfield and standout WR Mike Evans.

🇮🇪 Dublin, Ireland – Pittsburgh Steelers (Home)

Venue: Croke Park
Ryan’s pick: Green Bay Packers
Wade’s pick: Seattle Seahawks

Ireland hosts its first-ever NFL game, with Pittsburgh’s nod to Ireland. But for this analysis, we’ll focus on the team left behind: Ryan expects the Packers led by Jordan Love, while Wade still associates the Seahawks with their rugged, competitive style—with Sam Arnold looking for something to prove.

🇬🇧 London, UK – Jacksonville Jaguars (Home)

Venue: Wembley Stadium
Ryan’s pick: Kansas City Chiefs
Wade’s pick: Tennessee Titans

London’s most frequent hosts are back. Ryan wants to see the Chiefs, led by Patrick Mahomes, bring a Super Bowl-level clash to Wembley. Wade sees a divisional matchup with the Titans, who just signed Cam Ward as the number one pick.

🇬🇧 London, UK – Cleveland Browns (Home)

Venue: Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
Ryan’s pick: San Francisco 49ers
Wade’s pick: Detroit Lions

Ryan predicts a defensive showdown against the 49ers, still strong with Brock Purdy and a potent run game. Wade prefers the Lions, now one of the league’s most exciting teams, with Jared Goff under center and Amon-Ra St. Brown leading a surging offense.

🇬🇧 London, UK – New York Jets (Home)

Venue: Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
Ryan’s pick: Denver Broncos
Wade’s pick: Dallas Cowboys

The Jets, with Justin Fields at the helm are returning for the second year in a row. Ryan picks the Broncos, possibly starting rookie Bo Nix, for a fresh QB face-off. Wade goes bigger: the Dallas Cowboys, still starring Dak Prescott and Micah Parsons, would turn this into one of the most-watched international games ever.

📆 When Will the NFL International Schedule Be Announced?

The full 2025 NFL schedule—including dates for all international games—is expected to be released in mid-May. Once it drops, tickets will sell fast, especially for first-time host cities like Madrid, São Paulo, and Dublin.

🌎 Final Thoughts: NFL’s Global Push Is Just Beginning

From Mahomes to Cam Ward, Stroud to Tua, the 2025 NFL International Series is set to deliver elite talent, historic venues, and global reach. Ryan and Wade’s predictions offer two compelling perspectives: one focused on marquee matchups, the other on rivalries and rising stars.

Whether you’re rooting for your team from the U.S. or attending games across the globe, this year’s international series promises unforgettable football.

Stay tuned for the official matchups, and be ready to grab your tickets when the schedule drops.

The Ultimate London NFL Team: 10 Darkly Funny and Historically Inspired Names

April 2, 2025 by nflinlondon

The idea of an NFL team in London has been floating around for years, with the league regularly hosting games at Wembley, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, and now even discussing full-time relocation. But if the UK ever lands a franchise, it needs a name that reflects London’s unique, dark, and often hilarious history. Forget generic names like “London Knights” or “London Royals”—let’s go deeper (and darker) into British culture.
We got some AI help on this one, so let’s see what it comes up with for some truly bizarre takes on an NFL team in the UK.

1. London Plague

“Catch us if you can.”

Few things have swept through London as ruthlessly as the Black Death—except maybe Derrick Henry on a broken tackle. The London Plague would be a nightmare opponent, suffocating teams with relentless defence. Opposing quarterbacks would feel the pressure of a 17th-century doctor in a beaked mask bearing down on them.

Mascot: A terrifying Plague Doctor handing out towels labeled “Contaminated.”
Fan Section: “The Quarantine Zone.”
Motto: “Spreading wins since 1665.”

2. London Rippers

“We carve up defences.”

Jack the Ripper remains one of the most infamous figures in London’s history, so why not embrace the chaos? The London Rippers would strike fear into opponents, with an aggressive, unpredictable play-style that keeps teams guessing.

Mascot: A shadowy figure in a top hat, lurking on the sidelines.
Touchdown Call: “Another victim on the scoreboard!”
Fan Chant: “Who? Who? Who?” (Nobody ever caught Jack, after all.)

3. London Fog

“You’ll never see us coming.”

London’s infamous fog has confused sailors, pilots, and even entire armies. Imagine an NFL team using that same stealthy, unpredictable approach. On defence, they’d disappear into coverage; on offence, their movements would be impossible to track.

Gimmick: Fog machines blast the stadium tunnel before the team runs out.
Jerseys: Misty gray with shifting patterns.
Slogan: “Good luck finding the ball.”

4. London Black Cabs

“Always finding a way to the end zone.”

There’s nothing more reliable in London than a black cab driver with an encyclopaedic knowledge of routes. The London Black Cabs would embody this unstoppable efficiency, finding gaps in the defence no matter how chaotic the field.

Mascot: A cabbie shouting, “Where to, mate?”
Fans: Known as “The Fare Collectors.”
Rivalry: The New York Jets—because Londoners hate waiting for transport.

5. London Guillotines

“Off with their heads!”

The Brits may not have used the guillotine much (that was more of a French thing), but the name still screams ruthless execution. The London Guillotines would make their name by delivering brutal hits and finishing drives with clinical precision.

Slogan: “The cleanest cuts in the game.”
Turnover celebration: A giant falling blade animation on the jumbotron.
Fan Nickname: “The Executioners.”

6. London Pigeons

“We never leave.”

Love them or hate them, London’s pigeons are unrelenting, fearless, and always where they shouldn’t be. Just like a great special teams unit.

Mascot: A feathery terror with beady red eyes.
Touchdown Dance: The “Pigeon Flap.”
Opponents’ Nightmare: They poop all over your perfectly planned game.

7. London Hangmen

“Every down is a last chance.”

Once upon a time, the UK had an official Chief Executioner, and London was the epicentre of public hangings. Dark? Absolutely. But it also sets up some incredible branding opportunities for a team that thrives on pressuring QBs and finishing games.

Slogan: “Rope ‘em in.”
Defensive Motto: “No escaping this pocket.”
Theme Song: Probably something by The Smiths.

8. London Redcoats

“Defending home turf (except in the colonies).”

You can’t talk about London without acknowledging British military history. The London Redcoats would be a team built on discipline, structure, and old-school tactics—except in the fourth quarter, when things historically start falling apart.

Rivalry: The New England Patriots (for obvious reasons).
Mascot: A stern British soldier who refuses to acknowledge that the Super Bowl isn’t a “world championship.”
Chant: “The empire strikes back!”

9. London Underground

“Mind the gap (in your defence).”

London’s Tube system is one of the world’s most iconic, efficiently chaotic creations. The London Underground NFL team would reflect that—unpredictable, fast-moving, and sometimes completely broken on Sundays.

Fan Section: “The Rush Hour.”
Jersey Design: Tube map-inspired patterns.
Big Play Celebration: The stadium blares an automated “Please stand clear of the closing doors.”

10. London Smog

“We choke out the competition.”

Nothing says “classic London” like the Great Smog of 1952. This team would embody the suffocating nature of that historic event, making every offensive drive an absolute nightmare for opponents.

Defence Name: “The Stinkers”
Rivalry: The LA Rams, because nothing says air pollution like London vs. LA.
Marketing Slogan: “Can’t breathe? That’s just our pass rush.”

Which London NFL Team Name Wins?

With all these options, one thing is clear: London deserves a team with personality. Whether we go with the sinister London Rippers, the unstoppable London Black Cabs, or the truly terrifying London Plague, the UK fanbase deserves something uniquely British, darkly funny, and historically rich.

What do YOU think?

Which name should be London’s official NFL franchise? Drop your votes, and let’s make this happen! Or even just send in your own.

History of Wembley and the NFL

March 21, 2025 by nflinlondon

Wembley Stadium, often hailed as the “Home of Football,” has a storied history that intertwines with the evolution of sports and entertainment in the UK. From its original incarnation in 1923 to its modern-day architectural marvel, Wembley has been a beacon for global sporting events, including our beloved NFL games.
So ahead of the next Jacksonville game in 2025, let’s take a look at the History of Wembley and the NFL.

The Birth of a Legend: 1923

The original Wembley Stadium, known as the Empire Stadium, opened its doors in 1923. Its inaugural event, the FA Cup Final between Bolton Wanderers and West Ham United, was so overcrowded that it’s famously dubbed the “White Horse Final” due to a lone policeman on a white horse restoring order. This iconic venue quickly became synonymous with major football matches, concerts, and events that defined generations.

A Modern Revival: 2007

After serving the public for nearly 80 years, the original structure was demolished to make way for a new, state-of-the-art stadium. The new Wembley Stadium, unveiled in 2007, boasts a seating capacity of 90,000 and features the iconic 133-meter-high arch, visible from various points in London. This architectural wonder isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s a testament to modern engineering and design.

American Football Touchdown: The NFL’s Foray into Wembley

While Wembley is traditionally associated with “soccer” (as we NFL aficionados might differentiate), its relationship with American football dates back several decades. The first official American football game at Wembley was in 1952, featuring U.S. Air Force teams. Fast forward to 1983, and Wembley hosted its first NFL game when the Minnesota Vikings faced the St. Louis Cardinals in a preseason matchup. This game was part of the NFL’s efforts to globalise the sport and tap into the UK’s burgeoning interest.

The American Bowl Series: 1986-1993

The NFL’s commitment to international expansion led to the American Bowl series, a collection of preseason games held outside the United States. Wembley Stadium was a prominent venue during this period, hosting several memorable matchups. These games not only showcased NFL talent but also solidified London’s status as a key location for American football.

NFL International Series: A New Era

The real game-changer came in 2007 with the introduction of the NFL International Series, featuring regular-season games held at Wembley. The inaugural game saw the New York Giants edge out the Miami Dolphins 13-10 in a rain-soaked affair. This wasn’t just a win for the Giants but a monumental victory for NFL fans in the UK, proving that there was a substantial appetite for American football across the pond.

The Jacksonville Jaguars: London’s Team

Enter the Jacksonville Jaguars, a franchise that has embraced London as its second home. Starting in 2013, the Jaguars committed to playing one home game per season at Wembley, a relationship that has flourished over the years. Their presence has not only boosted the NFL’s popularity in the UK but has also fostered a loyal fan base in London. The Jaguars’ games at Wembley have become annual spectacles, blending the flair of American football with the rich traditions of British sporting culture.

2024: A Record-Breaking Showdown

The 2024 season marked a significant milestone in this transatlantic partnership. On October 20, 2024, the Jaguars faced off against the New England Patriots at Wembley Stadium. The game attracted a record crowd of 86,651 fans, the largest attendance for an NFL game in the UK to date. The Jaguars delivered an electrifying performance, securing a 32-16 victory. Highlights included Parker Washington’s stunning 96-yard punt return touchdown, the longest in NFL London history.

Looking Ahead: The 2025 Season

The NFL’s commitment to London shows no signs of waning. The 2025 season is set to feature multiple games in the UK, with the Jacksonville Jaguars, New York Jets, and Cleveland Browns designated as the home teams for these international fixtures. The Jaguars will continue their tradition of playing at Wembley Stadium, further cementing their bond with the UK fan base.

Wembley Stadium’s Hidden Gem

While many are familiar with Wembley’s grandeur, few know about its hidden feature—a retractable running track beneath the pitch. Intended for athletic events, this feature has never been used since the stadium’s reopening in 2007. The logistics and costs associated with converting the stadium for track and field events have rendered this feature dormant, a testament to the stadium’s multifaceted design that remains largely untapped.

A Cultural Exchange: NFL Meets British Fandom

The NFL games at Wembley have become more than just sporting events; they’re cultural exchanges. British fans have embraced American traditions, from tailgating to the flamboyant halftime shows. Conversely, American teams and fans have indulged in British customs, enjoying pints at local pubs and exploring London’s historic landmarks. This fusion has created a unique atmosphere that celebrates the best of both worlds.

A Legacy in the Making

Wembley Stadium’s journey from its 1923 origins to its current status as a global sports hub mirrors the NFL’s own evolution and international ambitions. The stadium has not only witnessed historic moments in traditional football but has also become a pivotal venue for American football. As the NFL continues to expand its global footprint, Wembley stands as a symbol of this cross-cultural collaboration, with the Jacksonville Jaguars leading the charge. The future promises even more thrilling matchups and record-breaking crowds, solidifying Wembley Stadium’s place in NFL history.

10 NFL Players with the Funniest Names

February 24, 2025 by nflinlondon

The off-season is upon us, which means it’s time to fill the void with anything NFL to remind us what a great game it is. To that, we thought we would look at some of the NFL players with the Funniest names. From past legends to current stars, the NFL has seen its fair share of memorable monikers that have left fans chuckling in the stands and at home. Let’s dive into our list of the 10 NFL players whose names have become almost as famous as their on-field achievements, and let’s face it, just funny to say.

1. Dick Butkus – The Name That Started It All

Perhaps the most legendary funny name in NFL history belongs to one of its greatest linebackers. Dick Butkus, who played for the Chicago Bears from 1965 to 1973, became a Hall of Famer despite (or perhaps partially because of) his unfortunately comedic name. The combination of his first and last name has provided decades of entertainment for football fans, even as they acknowledge his status as one of the most fearsome defenders ever to play the game.

2. Ha Ha Clinton-Dix – No Joke About His Talent

Born Ha’Sean, but nicknamed “Ha Ha” by his grandmother in childhood, Clinton-Dix has embraced his unique moniker throughout his NFL career. The former Green Bay Packers safety’s name has been the source of countless broadcast chuckles and social media memes, but his play on the field – including a Pro Bowl selection in 2016 – has proven he’s no laughing matter.

3. Barkevious Mingo – Straight Out of a Sci-Fi Movie

With a first name that sounds like it could belong to an alien overlord, Barkevious Mingo has been turning heads since entering the league in 2013. The linebacker’s name has inspired numerous fan discussions about whether it’s the most unique name in NFL history, and it’s certainly in the running for that title.

4. D’Brickashaw Ferguson – Offensive Line Royalty

The former New York Jets left tackle’s parents created his distinctive first name after a character in “The Thorn Birds” named Father Ralph de Bricassart. The result was a name that sounds both regal and slightly ridiculous, perfect for a man who would protect quarterbacks for 10 solid NFL seasons.

5. Equanimeous St. Brown – Poetry in Motion

Currently playing as a wide receiver, Equanimeous Tristan Imhotep J. St. Brown might have the most sophisticated-sounding funny name in NFL history. His father, a former Mr. Universe, gave all his sons unique names, but Equanimeous stands out even among his uniquely-named brothers (one of whom, Amon-Ra, also plays in the NFL).

6. Captain Munnerlyn – Born to Lead

When your parents name you “Captain,” you’re either destined for greatness or endless jokes – in Munnerlyn’s case, it was both. The former NFL cornerback lived up to his commanding first name during his career, though broadcasters never tired of pointing out the apparent rank in his name.

7. Taco Charlton – A Delicious Talent

While his real first name is Vidauntae, “Taco” Charlton has embraced his nickname throughout his NFL career. The defensive end has heard every possible food-related pun during his time in the league, but the name has certainly helped make him memorable among fans.

8. Colt McCoy – Too Perfect to Be Real

Sometimes a name is funny simply because it’s too perfect. Colt McCoy sounds like a character from a 1950s Western movie rather than a real NFL quarterback. The veteran signal-caller’s name has been bringing smiles to fans’ faces since his college days at Texas.

9. Whitney Mercilus – Ironically Named

The former Houston Texans linebacker’s last name (pronounced “merciless”) seemed almost too perfect for a defensive player. Despite his intimidating surname, Mercilus was known as one of the nicest players off the field, creating an amusing contrast that fans and media often noted.

10. Ikponmwosa Igbinosun – Tongue-Twister Supreme

While his NFL career was brief, Igbinosun’s name earns a spot on this list for its sheer complexity and the challenge it presented to broadcasters and fans alike. The defensive end’s full name became something of a legend among announcers who had to prepare extensively just to attempt its pronunciation.

While these names might draw chuckles, they’ve also helped these players stand out in a league of thousands. A memorable name can become part of a player’s brand, helping them remain in fans’ memories long after their playing days are over. In some cases, these unique monikers have even helped players build their personal brands and post-NFL careers.

For fans and commentators alike, these distinctive names add an extra layer of entertainment to the game we all love. They remind us that football, for all its seriousness and competition, can also be a source of joy and amusement, even if that wasn’t what their parents intended when filling out those birth certificates.

Whether you’re a casual fan or a dedicated follower of the sport, these names serve as reminders that sometimes the most memorable aspects of football have nothing to do with what happens on the field. They’ve become part of NFL folklore, ensuring that these players will be remembered not just for their athletic achievements, but for the smiles their names have brought to fans’ faces over the years. Which player do you think had/ has the funniest name?

Super Bowl 59 Recap: Eagles Soar, Chiefs Sputter

February 10, 2025 by nflinlondon

It was an incredible Super Bowl 59 for the NFC and Eagles fans, as they thoroughly humbled Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs, and the coaching staff of KC.
It turns out that they can be beat in the post season, as Philly was all over them.
Let’s take a look at a recap of the big game.

Philadelphia’s Defensive Domination

The Philadelphia Eagles turned Super Bowl LIX into their own personal highlight reel, bulldozing the Kansas City Chiefs 40-22 and making Patrick Mahomes look, well, mortal. The Eagles’ defensive line showed up like they were double-parked outside the stadium, racking up six sacks and applying relentless pressure on Mahomes, who was running for his life all night.

Josh Sweat led the way with 2.5 sacks, while Milton Williams and Jordan Davis contributed to the Mahomes mayhem. By the time the first half ended, Mahomes had already thrown two interceptions—one of which rookie Cooper DeJean returned 38 yards for a touchdown. The Chiefs must have wondered if they’d walked into the wrong stadium because this was looking less like a championship game and more like an Eagles-sponsored stress test.

The Mahomes Meltdown

Mahomes has been known to perform miracles on the field, but this time, he needed divine intervention. The Chiefs’ quarterback had one of the worst playoff performances of his career, finishing 21-of-32 for 257 yards, three touchdowns (two coming in garbage time), and two momentum-killing interceptions. Kansas City fans were left wondering if they had been transported back to Super Bowl LV, when Mahomes was similarly tormented by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

To be fair, it wasn’t entirely his fault—his offensive line provided less protection than a broken umbrella, and his receivers seemed to be playing a game of “Hot Potato” with the football. Travis Kelce, normally Mahomes’ go-to target, was practically invisible in the first half, managing just one yard alongside rookie Xavier Worthy.

Hurts Silences the Doubters

Jalen Hurts, on the other hand, played like a man on a mission. The Eagles’ quarterback shrugged off any remaining doubts about his ability to win the big one, earning Super Bowl MVP honors with a near-flawless performance. He completed 17-of-22 passes for 221 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception, while also leading the team in rushing with 72 yards and a touchdown.

Hurts became just the second quarterback in history to throw for 200 yards and rush for 70 yards in a Super Bowl—joining himself from Super Bowl LVII. Maybe now people will stop questioning whether he belongs in the elite QB conversation.

The Chiefs’ Secondary: A Horror Show

Kansas City’s rush defense deserved a standing ovation, bottling up Saquon Barkley and holding him to just 57 yards on 25 carries (a brutal 2.3 yards per attempt). Unfortunately for them, the secondary was about as sturdy as wet cardboard. Jaylen Watson got cooked on a 46-yard touchdown from Hurts to DeVonta Smith, and the Chiefs gave up five pass plays of 20+ yards. If Kansas City is serious about contending again next year, their offseason shopping list should start with “new defensive backs.”

Questionable Officiating: A Super Bowl Tradition

What’s a Super Bowl without a little referee controversy? The game started with two questionable penalties—one against Eagles receiver A.J. Brown on a phantom offensive pass interference, and another unnecessary roughness flag against Chiefs corner Trent McDuffie. While the calls didn’t impact the outcome, they certainly didn’t help Kansas City’s already uphill battle.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next?

The Chiefs’ bid for a three-peat is officially dead, but Mahomes and Andy Reid will be back for another run next season—though Travis Kelce’s future remains uncertain. As for the Eagles, they’ll have to replace offensive coordinator Kellen Moore, who is reportedly heading to the Saints, but with a dominant defense and an elite quarterback, Philadelphia is set up for more success in the years to come.

Super Bowl 59 may not have given us a nail-biting finish, but it gave us plenty to talk about—mainly, how unstoppable the Eagles’ defense was and how much therapy Chiefs fans will need. Here’s to another wild NFL season ahead!