2024 NFL draft

Vikings vs Jets London Events

October 2, 2024 by nflinlondon

Are you ready for some NFL Jets and Vikings fans in the UK? As London gears up to host the highly anticipated NFL matchup between the Minnesota Vikings and the New York Jets at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Sunday, October 6th, 2024, fans from both sides are in for more than just game day excitement. Leading up to the big clash, both teams have a lineup of events that will bring fans closer to the action and create an unforgettable atmosphere across the city. So to help you plan your week more effectively, here’s a breakdown of all the Vikings vs Jets London events ahead of this thrilling NFL showdown.

Vikings Events in London

Although both teams aren’t expected until the very last minute, The Minnesota Vikings are ready to paint London purple with several exciting events planned throughout the week. Fans will have the chance to mingle, celebrate, and immerse themselves in all things Vikings in the lead-up to the game.

Greenwood Victoria Pub Takeover

Starting on Wednesday, October 2nd, Vikings fans can head to the Greenwood Sports Pub at 170 Victoria Street, London for an exclusive week-long takeover. The pub will be transformed into a Vikings-themed haven, providing a perfect pre-game atmosphere for the purple faithful. Not sure how far they are going to go with the Viking theme.

Expect appearances from Vikings Legends, making it a great opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the team’s greats. Along with the chance to meet these former players, there will be plenty of competitions, giveaways, and quizzes to keep the energy high throughout the week.

Vikings events will be held at the notoriously pricey, Greenwood Pub, where we previously held a season of NFL in London events. Hopefully they have upped their food game, as most of our fans opted to buy McDonald’s from the station by week 3. The Greenwood is located near Victoria station, and not much else.

Vikings Tailgate Party

For those wanting even more excitement, a Vikings Tailgate Party is also scheduled at the Greenwood for Friday October 4th. Despite being billed as a ‘Tailgate’ this event will be held indoors, and you cannot bring your own food or drink. There will also be NO NCAA football on, but they will be showing Sunderland vs Leeds. Fans can expect ‘fun games’ (sic), music, and plenty of Vikings-themed activities to get everyone in the mood for Sunday’s game. Fun games…in a bar?

The rally will be a fantastic opportunity for tourists to the UK to meet fellow Vikings fans, experience London beer prices firsthand, and gear up for what promises to be an intense battle against the Jets.

The Vikings UK group are also promoting an ‘Outernet Immersive Experience’, which sounds like something from a P Diddy party, but promises special guests and appearances, much like Diddy’s.
It’s being held at Outernet at Tottenham Court road, and no, we haven’t heard of it either.

Prior to the game, the Vikings will have a FanZone inside the stadium, at the south-east corner.

Jets Events in London

Not to be outdone, the New York Jets also have several events planned for their fans, ensuring that London turns a shade of green in the run-up to the game. Jets supporters can look forward to a range of exciting activities, with less of a corporate feel to the Vikings activities.

Jets Kickoff Party

Jets fans looking to get their green on with fellow fans can head to the Jets Kickoff Party on Friday October 4th, at the Redwood Pub near London bridge.

Located in east London, near Borough Market, this will be a great chance for Jets fans to cheer, drink beer, and sample some of Aaron Rodgers darkness retreat tricks. Although we have never been, it is owned by the same people as the Greenwood, so expect comparable prices and offerings.

The party is advertised as going from 6pm-late, so make sure that you get there early to secure a seat.

On Saturday October 5th, there is a Jets Touchdown Tailgate planned at Ely’s Yard in Shoreditch. Kicking off from noon to 9pm, this is the perfect chance to get day-wasted with fellow fans, and feel like a bag of toys in the morning just before the game. Forecast is for rain all weekend, so be prepared.

Whether you’ve been following the Jets for years or are a new fan, this is an unmissable event that will bring you closer to the history and spirit of the team. It’s the perfect way to cap off a week of celebrations before the big game on Sunday.

Gameday Excitement at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium

On Sunday, October 6th, all roads lead to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium for the big game. With a 14:30 p.m. BST kickoff, both teams will be looking to secure a crucial win in front of a sold-out crowd. The energy inside the stadium will be electric as fans of both teams come together for this monumental NFL clash.

The Vikings are entering the game with an undefeated season, while the Jets are hungry to make their mark. As Aaron Rodgers leads the Jets against his former backup Sam Darnold, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

If you don’t have tickets for the game, you can join fellow Jets fans at the Redwood Pub near London bridge, where they will be showing the game.

Matchup Preview

The Vikings enter as 2.5-point favorites, but the Jets, led by their star quarterback Aaron Rodgers, are sure to put up a fight. This game holds special significance for Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold, facing his former team on an international stage.

Historical context adds another layer of intrigue:

All-time series: Jets lead 8-4
Last meeting: Vikings won 27-22 (2022)
Recent trend: Vikings have won the last three encounters
London games tend to go Under

The Other Football

For any NFL fans making their way to the game this Sunday, just a reminder that you are in the land of ‘soccer’.

You won’t find dozens of TV’s showing NCAA here, rather a few tiny pubs with a small screen playing the beautiful game.
This will be even more poignant on Saturday and Sunday, when there are plenty of matches on all day.

That being said, many of the Saturday footie matches are London based, meaning you can try to get tickets in the busy city.

On Saturday October 5th, home games are being played for Crystal Palace, West Ham, Brentford, and Arsenal. Sunday sees Chelsea at home, and a 4:30 Tottenham away match, which will be on every TV in the sports pubs.

With a lineup of Vikings and Jets events scheduled throughout London, the build-up to the NFL showdown at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium promises to be thrilling for fans of both teams.

Make sure to soak in all the events, and get ready for an unforgettable NFL experience in London, culminating with the big game on Sunday. It’s going to be a week to remember!

Have fun Jets and Vikings fans, and welcome to London!

Promote Your NFL Events with Us!

September 25, 2024 by nflinlondon

With the NFL returning to London in 2024 for another thrilling series of games, it’s time for pubs and bars across the city to take advantage of the excitement and welcome a new wave of American football fans. If you’re a pub or bar in the city, why not promote your NFL events with us!
The NFL London games are an ideal opportunity for venues to boost their footfall by hosting NFL-themed events, screenings, and parties. Whether your venue is near the stadiums or nestled in a lively part of town, or just so dang cool that people NEED to see it, advertising your NFL events can attract new customers and increase your visibility.

At our NFL in London platform, we can help you spread the word about your upcoming events to NFL fans all across the UK. With over 3 million weekly followers across all of our social media platforms, your bar or pub could be front and center in front of a massive audience. From NFL enthusiasts to curious Londoners looking to experience the unique atmosphere of an NFL game, we’ll help you draw them in. If you’re hosting NFL events for any of the upcoming 2024 international games, now’s the time to get in touch with us to boost your promotions!

Why Advertise Your NFL Events With Us?

If you’re planning on turning your venue into a hub for NFL fans on game days, partnering with our NFL in London platform gives you unparalleled access to a growing and engaged audience. Here’s how we can help:

1. Reach Millions of NFL Fans

With over 3 million weekly followers on our social media channels, your event promotion will reach NFL fans all over London and beyond. Whether they’re die-hard supporters of the New York Jets, Minnesota Vikings, Jacksonville Jaguars, Chicago Bears, or New England Patriots, we’ll ensure they know where to go to enjoy the action.

We’ve been running NFL events in the UK since 2007, so we have you covered when it comes on where to go, and mostly-where not to.

Our dedicated audience actively seeks out NFL-themed bars and venues to watch the games in, which means your venue could become the go-to spot for NFL fans during the international series and beyond.

If you’re looking to host something around the international games, we got you covered.

2. Maximise Attendance for Key NFL London Games

The upcoming NFL games in London are massive events that will attract thousands of fans from all over the UK and Europe. In fact, we estimate that there will be around 110,000 Americans, 25,000 Germans, and over 100,000 UK NFL fans coming into the city for the month.
Many fans will be looking for great venues to watch the games before or after attending the matches. Your bar or pub could be the perfect spot to host fans for these highly anticipated games:

– Sunday 6th October 2024 – New York Jets vs Minnesota Vikings at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium

– Sunday 13th October 2024 – Jacksonville Jaguars vs Chicago Bears at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium

-Sunday 20th October 2024 – New England Patriots vs Jacksonville Jaguars at Wembley Stadium

By advertising with us, you’ll get the chance to showcase your venue as the prime location for fans looking to enjoy food, drinks, and all the game-day excitement. Our social media reach will make sure your NFL event stands out from the crowd.

We don’t allow ticket touts, so if you’re planning on illegally selling tickets to our fans, you can screw right off!

3. Exclusive Opportunities to Collaborate on Our Podcast

In addition to social media promotions, we offer the chance for regular advertisers to feature on our highly popular NFL in London podcast. With thousands of weekly listeners, our podcast is the perfect platform to promote your venue and share what makes your NFL events special. Whether you want to discuss upcoming events, special offers, or the unique atmosphere your venue provides, our podcast listeners will get an inside scoop on what makes your bar or pub a must-visit destination on game days.

We are happy to either have some fun guests on from your team to discuss your offer, or just a few host reads to promote your offer. We can tailor it all to your needs.

4. Tailored Advertising Solutions for Regular NFL Events

Is your venue planning to host regular NFL screenings or events throughout the season? We can help you create a tailored advertising package that includes regular features across our social media channels, website, and podcast. By partnering with us, your pub or bar will benefit from continuous exposure to an audience that lives and breathes NFL football. From trivia nights to themed parties, our advertising solutions will keep your events top of mind for NFL fans in London.

Contact Us to Promote Your NFL Event!

Ready to pack your venue with NFL fans? Get in touch with us today to discuss advertising opportunities for your NFL events. Whether you’re planning to host parties for the international games, run NFL-themed promotions, or want to be a long-term partner in our community, we have the platform to help you succeed.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to advertise your NFL events to millions of passionate fans!

For more information, send us a message or check out our advertising options on our website. Let’s make your venue the ultimate destination for NFL fans in London this season!

By advertising with our NFL in London platform, you’ll not only get your venue in front of millions of NFL fans but also become a key part of the London American football community. Whether you’re aiming for a one-off event promotion or seeking regular exposure for the entire season, we’ve got the tools to make your NFL events a success!

Bears London

September 17, 2024 by nflinlondon

As the Chicago Bears make their way across the pond for another thrilling October NFL showdown in London, there’s no better time to explore all the “bear-y” fun that the capital of the UK has to offer. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the Chicago Bears or just tagging along for the ride, London has plenty of bear-related sights and stories to entertain you before and after the big game. From historical bears to famous bear-related landmarks, here’s everything Chicago Bears fans need to know about the ‘other’ bears of London.

Fun Fact-Just because someone is wearing a Chicago Bears jersey, doesn’t mean that they know anything about the Bears. All you have to is say ‘Bear Down’ to them, and watch for the look on their face.

Queen’s Bearskins

When in London, it’s hard to miss the stoic Queen’s Guard soldiers standing tall at Buckingham Palace. Whatever you do, don’t get up in their grill, or this could happen.

What might catch your eye more than their unflinching demeanor, though, are those giant fuzzy hats perched on their heads. Yes, those iconic headpieces are made of real Canadian bearskin! No Canadians were hurt in the process, although the bears were.

The bearskin hat is a towering 18 inches tall and weighs about 1.5 pounds, and it’s as much a symbol of London as Big Ben or Tower Bridge. These towering hats were originally designed to make the guards look more imposing, and they date back to 1815 when British soldiers wore them to celebrate their victory at the Battle of Waterloo.

Of course, today’s hats are made with ethically sourced bearskin, and alternatives have been explored. But for now, these regal hats remain a reminder that bears are part of London’s royal heritage, and you can catch a glimpse of these bear-inspired accessories during the Changing of the Guard ceremony.

Paddington Bear

It wouldn’t be a trip to London without mentioning one of the most beloved bears in British pop culture – Paddington Bear. Created by Michael Bond in 1958, this little bear from Peru found his way to London with nothing but a suitcase and his trusty marmalade sandwiches.

True bear fans will know that Paddington in Peru movie comes out in November, so this autumn truly is the place to be a bear in the capital.

If you’re in the mood for some bear-themed sightseeing, head to Paddington Station where a bronze statue of the bear himself waits to greet visitors. Nearby, you can also visit the Paddington Bear Shop to grab some adorable souvenirs, from teddy bears to marmalade jars. For Chicago Bears fans, Paddington is a reminder of how the city of London embraces all things bear-related with open arms.

The Bear Garden

Bear garden, not beer garden, although you’ll probably hit both during a successful London trip. Chicago has its Wrigley Field, and London has… the Bear Garden? It sounds like the perfect place for Bears fans to gather! In the Elizabethan era, bear-baiting was a popular form of entertainment (though thankfully no longer practiced today). Close to the famous Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, there once stood an arena known as The Bear Garden, where Londoners would watch bears fight against dogs in brutal displays.

Although bear-baiting is long gone (thank goodness), the site is worth visiting for history buffs who want to know more about the wild, colorful history of London’s past. Just imagine the fanfare of old London crowds rooting for their favorite bear to take down its opponent – quite the spectacle, but one best left in the past! Today, the area is a cultural hub dedicated to Shakespeare’s works, and you can catch a performance at the Globe Theatre to see how Londoners have shifted from violent bear spectacles to high culture.

Feel free to wear your Bears jersey, so that people know that you are a fan of both literature and sport.

Winnie Pooh’s

While Paddington might be London’s official bear ambassador, Winnie the Pooh is another beloved British bear with strong connections to the capital. A.A. Milne, the author of “Winnie-the-Pooh”, was inspired by his son Christopher Robin’s love of a real bear at the London Zoo.

This bear, named Winnie, was originally from Canada and became a star attraction at the zoo after being adopted by British soldiers during World War I. Today, Pooh’s legacy lives on in books, movies, and merchandise that continue to delight fans of all ages. While there isn’t a specific Winnie the Pooh landmark in London, a visit to the zoo or a quick stroll through Harrods – where Pooh merch reigns supreme – will satisfy any bear lover’s appetite.

Another fun fact is that the trademark on Winnie has expired, which is why you’ll see him in acting in low-budget horror flicks as of late, in case you were thinking he went full Nick Cage.

Bears vs Jags

And of course, the reason you’re here – to support the Chicago Bears in their London appearance, when they take on the Jacksonville Jaguars at Tottenham stadium.

London has become a second home for the NFL over the last decade, with multiple games being played each season as part of the league’s International Series. The city’s stadiums transform into a haven for American football fans, bringing together die-hard supporters from all corners of the globe.

Make sure to immerse yourself in the local NFL culture, as Londoners have fully embraced American football. You’ll find Bears jerseys mingling with fans from all teams, creating a unique international atmosphere you won’t experience anywhere else. We will let you know the NFL events as they come out, so watch this space. From tailgate parties to interactive fan zones, to make the most of your London NFL experience, make sure you follow us for all the cool things to do in London.

Bear Pubs

Finally, no trip to London is complete without a pint (or 12) at a local pub. You might even stumble across a pub named after a bear, God knows they have enough lion themed pubs!
So if you’re looking to knock off a pub crawl of Bear-themed pubs, here are a few to consider:

The Bear-Paddington
The aptly named Bear near Paddington station is the perfect place to start your London pub crawl.
An independent pub since 2011, the pub serves up local and craft beers, as well as having its own private hire room.

The Bear and Staff-Soho
Located right in the heart of Soho, is this chain-pub boozer close to all the action. Dating back to 1714, the Bear and Staff has a fine selection of real ales, and is close enough to the Thames for those late night strolls to work off the pints.

Thirsty Bear-South Bank
Just across the river is the aptly named Thirsty Bear, which even offers self-serve taps at your very own table! A very busy pub that is famed for sport, hit the Thirsty if you’re looking to expand on your Bear-Themed pub crawl.

Brown Bear-White Chapel
Head east young folks if you want to sample the traditional atmosphere of the Brown Bear in Whitechapel. With loads of live sport and whiskey, you might find the pub crawl stalling here for a bit.

White Bear-Farringdon
We love independent pubs, which is why the White Bear in Farringdon is such a sweet treat. With fresh artisan pizzas, rotating local beers, and yummy cocktails, it’s easy to see why this pub is such a popular haunt for locals, and tourists alike.

For Chicago Bears fans, it’s a chance to unwind in true British fashion. And who knows, you might even meet some UK-based Bears fans who share your love for the team – proving once again that “Bear Down” knows no borders. Unless of course you have no idea what that means.

Bear Down in London

London is ready to welcome Chicago Bears fans with open arms (and paws). Whether you’re exploring bear-related landmarks or just soaking in the city’s rich history and culture, there’s plenty to see and do before and after the game. From Paddington to Winnie the Pooh, the bears of London might not have the flash of Caleb Williams, but they’ll certainly add a fun twist to your NFL weekend abroad.

So grab your Chicago Bears jersey, prepare to Bear Down, and enjoy everything London has to offer – from royal bearskin hats to pint-sized Paddington Bear. It’s going to be a roaring good time!

Watch this space, as we will have loads more info here as we release it.

Promote Your NFL Nights

August 18, 2024 by nflinlondon

Are you a bar owner looking to attract NFL fans and create an unforgettable atmosphere for American football in your venue? Whether you’re in London, Manchester, Glasgow, or anywhere across the UK, now is the time to capitalize on the growing NFL fanbase. The NFL’s popularity in the UK is bigger than ever, and your bar could be the go-to spot for fans to catch the action.
As the largest NFL promoter in the UK, we’re here to help you promote your NFL nights!

At “NFL in London”, we’re here to help you make that happen. With over 17 years of experience promoting NFL events across the country, we know exactly what UK fans want. We are the most experienced NFL social group in the UK, run by authentic North Americans who live and breathe the game. From London games to Thanksgiving, the Super Bowl, and everything in between, we can help you transform your venue into the ultimate NFL destination. We even have some amazing wings recipes if that’s what you’re after!

Here’s how we can help you:

Unmatched Reach & Expertise

When you partner with us, you’re not just getting an ad space or a mention. You’re gaining access to a passionate community of NFL fans across the UK. Our website has a weekly reach of over 1.3 million, and our podcast attracts more than 30,000 listeners every month. If you want to promote your NFL nights and reach fans directly, we have the audience and expertise to do it.

Our deep understanding of the NFL and its fanbase means that we know what works. We can tailor your promotion to create the perfect NFL experience, from the menu to the entertainment. With over 17 years in the game, we’ve seen it all and can guide you to ensure your venue stands out.

No Venue Too Big or Small

It doesn’t matter if you own a large sports bar in London or a cozy pub in a small town – we work with bars of all sizes and budgets. Whether you’re looking to host regular NFL nights, promote special events like the Super Bowl, or even organize fundraisers around NFL games, we’ve got you covered. We just want to make sure what you do is authentic, and shows respect to the fans and the games.

We offer flexible packages tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re just starting out and need some guidance on hosting NFL events or already have an established NFL crowd and want to take it to the next level, we can create a marketing plan that works for you.
From one-0ffs, to full event listings every week on our events page, we got you covered!

Full Support for NFL Events

NFL in London isn’t just about promotion – we’re all about helping you create an authentic NFL experience. Our team can come to your venue and set up, host, and even run your NFL nights. We know what NFL fans love, and we’ll bring that energy directly to your bar.

From setting up fantasy football leagues to keep your patrons engaged all season long, to hosting NFL trivia nights that bring fans together, we’ve got all the tools to make your NFL nights a hit. We can even provide tips on crafting an authentic menu that will make your customers feel like they’re at an American tailgate party!

Promoting Major NFL Events

The NFL season is filled with can’t-miss events, and your bar can be the centre of the action. Whether it’s promoting the London games, Thanksgiving Day matchups, or the grand finale of the Super Bowl, we can help you make your venue the place to be for these huge events.

Fans flock to bars to watch their favorite teams during these events, and we’ll ensure your venue is on their radar. Let us handle the promotion and marketing, so you can focus on delivering an incredible experience to your customers.

We can even bring in some authentic North American comedians, so that your halftime show is full of laughs, and with continuous action.

Why Choose Us?

– Proven Expertise: Over 17 years of experience in NFL event promotion.

– Extensive Reach: Reach 1.3 million NFL fans weekly and 30,000 podcast listeners monthly.

– Comprehensive Support: From small pubs to large sports bars, we can work with any budget to create a custom marketing plan.

– Authentic Experience: With a team of North Americans who know NFL culture inside and out, we can help make your NFL nights truly authentic.

We’re passionate about growing the NFL community in the UK, and we want to help you be a part of it. If you’re ready to take your NFL nights to the next level, reach out to us today. Together, we can create an unforgettable NFL experience for fans across the UK.

Let’s Get Started!

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to become a go-to destination for NFL fans in your area. Contact us now to discuss how we can help promote your NFL nights and make your bar the home of American football in the UK.

Let NFL in London help you make your bar the ultimate destination for NFL fans. Get in touch now, so we can promote your NFL nights before the season starts in September!

Best Rookie Years

August 8, 2024 by nflinlondon

The NFL hype-train is in full effect, as fantasy fans start making their predictions as to who will be the best rookie in 2024. But who are some of the players who had the Best Rookie Years?
Let’s take a look at the list at several rookies have made an immediate impact, leaving their mark from day one. These athletes didn’t just meet expectations—they exceeded them, setting the stage for illustrious careers. Here, we take a look at seven NFL rookies who had truly breakout seasons, capturing the attention of fans and analysts alike.
Who knows, maybe someone in 2024 will crack it as well?

1. Randy Moss (1998, Minnesota Vikings)

Randy Moss burst onto the NFL scene in 1998 and quickly became one of the most electrifying wide receivers the league has ever seen. Drafted 21st overall by the Minnesota Vikings, Moss made an immediate impact with his unique combination of size, speed, and athleticism. During his rookie season, Moss caught 69 passes for 1,313 yards and an astonishing 17 touchdowns. His ability to stretch the field with deep routes opened up the Vikings’ offense, helping them achieve a 15-1 regular season record. Moss’s rookie year set the foundation for a Hall of Fame career, and his 17 touchdown receptions remain a rookie record.

2. Cam Newton (2011, Carolina Panthers)

When the Carolina Panthers selected Cam Newton with the first overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft, expectations were sky-high. Newton didn’t just meet those expectations—he shattered them. In his rookie season, Newton threw for 4,051 yards and 21 touchdowns while adding 706 yards and 14 touchdowns on the ground. He became the first rookie quarterback to throw for over 4,000 yards, and his 35 total touchdowns set a new record for rookie QBs. Newton’s dual-threat ability revolutionized the quarterback position and earned him the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award.

3. Eric Dickerson (1983, Los Angeles Rams)

Eric Dickerson’s rookie season in 1983 is still considered one of the greatest by any running back in NFL history. Drafted second overall by the Los Angeles Rams, Dickerson wasted no time making his presence felt. He rushed for 1,808 yards and scored 18 total touchdowns, setting a rookie record for rushing yards that still stands today. Dickerson’s combination of speed, vision, and power was unmatched, and he quickly became the focal point of the Rams’ offense. His performance not only earned him the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award but also set the stage for a Hall of Fame career.

4. Lawrence Taylor (1981, New York Giants)

Lawrence Taylor is widely regarded as one of the greatest defensive players in NFL history, and his rookie season in 1981 was nothing short of spectacular. Selected second overall by the New York Giants, Taylor revolutionized the outside linebacker position with his aggressive and disruptive style of play. He recorded 9.5 sacks (unofficial at the time, as sacks were not an official statistic until 1982) and was named the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year. Taylor’s impact went beyond the stats, as he transformed the Giants’ defense and struck fear into opposing quarterbacks. His rookie season was just the beginning of a legendary career that would include two Super Bowl titles and a place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

5. Ben Roethlisberger (2004, Pittsburgh Steelers)

Ben Roethlisberger took the NFL by storm in 2004, leading the Pittsburgh Steelers to a 15-1 record and an appearance in the AFC Championship Game. Drafted 11th overall, “Big Ben” was thrust into the starting role in Week 3 due to an injury to the Steelers’ starter. Roethlisberger quickly proved he was up to the challenge, throwing for 2,621 yards and 17 touchdowns while completing 66.4% of his passes. He won all 13 of his regular-season starts, setting an NFL record for the most wins by a rookie quarterback. Roethlisberger’s poise under pressure and ability to make plays on the move laid the groundwork for a career that would eventually include two Super Bowl victories.

6. Gale Sayers (1965, Chicago Bears)

Gale Sayers, known as “The Kansas Comet,” had a rookie season in 1965 that remains one of the most impressive in NFL history. Drafted by the Chicago Bears with the fourth overall pick, Sayers was a dynamic running back, receiver, and return specialist. He scored a staggering 22 touchdowns—14 rushing, 6 receiving, and 2 on special teams—amassing 1,374 yards from scrimmage. Sayers’ most iconic performance came in a single game where he scored six touchdowns against the San Francisco 49ers, showcasing his remarkable versatility and game-breaking ability. Sayers’ rookie season earned him the NFL Rookie of the Year award and solidified his place as one of the most exciting players to ever grace the field.

7. Dak Prescott (2016, Dallas Cowboys)

Dak Prescott wasn’t expected to see the field much in his rookie season after being drafted in the fourth round by the Dallas Cowboys in 2016. However, an injury to Tony Romo in the preseason thrust Prescott into the starting role, and he seized the opportunity in remarkable fashion. Prescott threw for 3,667 yards, 23 touchdowns, and only 4 interceptions, leading the Cowboys to a 13-3 record and an NFC East title. His ability to protect the football and make smart decisions under pressure was reminiscent of a seasoned veteran. Prescott’s outstanding performance earned him the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award and set the stage for a promising career in Dallas.

These seven NFL rookies not only met the high expectations placed upon them but also exceeded them, setting records and laying the foundations for future success. Their impact on the game was immediate, and their rookie seasons remain some of the most memorable in NFL history. As new talents continue to enter the league, these players serve as benchmarks for what a truly exceptional rookie season can look like.

Will Caleb Williams or Marvin Harrison Jr. have this much of a deep impact in 2024? There certainly is a lot of pressure on them.