NFL in London

National Football League in London

2024 NFL london

London To Do 2024

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With 3 London games on their way for 2024, many of you visiting the capital might be looking for some things to do when you’re here. Luckily, we have complied a list of some fun neighbourhoods, museums, walks and fun facts to make your stay here that much more British in our London To Do 2024. 

London is a city that perfectly blends history, culture, and modern-day excitement, making it a fantastic destination for any NFL fan visiting the UK. While London may not have traditional NFL tailgates or dedicated sports bars like in the U.S., it offers a wide array of experiences to explore the city’s rich history, vibrant neighbourhoods, and fascinating stories. Here’s a guide for NFL fans looking to make the most of their visit to London.

Hoods to Explore

London is a mosaic of diverse neighbourhoods, each with its own character, history, and charm. While the NFL games might be up north at Wembley and Tottenham, there is still plenty to see in the city.
For NFL fans looking to explore beyond the stadiums, these neighbourhoods provide a perfect mix of culture, food, and history:

Greenwich: A must-visit for any history buff, Greenwich is famous for its maritime heritage and scenic views. Start at the Royal Observatory, where you can stand on the Prime Meridian Line, marking the division between the Eastern and Western Hemispheres. NFL fans who love navigation, exploration, and historical tales will appreciate the National Maritime Museum and the restored Cutty Sark, a 19th-century clipper ship. The area’s charming streets and markets also offer great spots for leisurely walks and discovering unique souvenirs.

Notting Hill: Known for its pastel-coloured houses and the world-famous Portobello Road Market, Notting Hill is a lively neighbourhood with a mix of boutiques, antique shops, and cafes. NFL fans can enjoy a stroll through the market, where you’ll find everything from vintage clothes to rare books and collectibles. The neighbourhood’s quaint charm, combined with a vibrant atmosphere, makes it perfect for a laid-back day of exploring.

Southbank and Bankside: A walk along the Southbank is a fantastic way to experience London’s riverside culture. Start at the London Eye for a panoramic view of the city, then continue along the Thames Path towards the Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, Tate Modern, and Borough Market. NFL fans interested in arts and history will find the Tate Modern’s contemporary art collection and the Globe Theatre’s nod to London’s literary heritage particularly engaging. In previous years, the NFLUK has hosted activities in Southbank as well. 

Islington: Just north of central London, Islington is a vibrant neighbourhood known for its independent boutiques, diverse dining scene, and cultural venues. Visit Camden Passage, an area famous for its antique shops and quaint cafes. The Emirates Stadium, home to Arsenal Football Club, is nearby for fans interested in exploring the stadium of one of England’s most storied soccer clubs.

Museum Tours 

For NFL fans who appreciate history, culture, and art, London’s museums offer a treasure trove of knowledge and experiences:

The British Museum: This iconic museum is home to over eight million artifacts that span the history of human civilisation. Highlights include the Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles, and the Egyptian mummies. NFL fans interested in epic tales, ancient sports, and the power dynamics of empires will find the British Museum an enthralling place to spend a day.

The Natural History Museum: Located in South Kensington, the Natural History Museum is one of the most beautiful buildings in London. NFL fans who love science, dinosaurs, and the natural world can explore its vast collection, including the famous Hintze Hall with its giant blue whale skeleton. The museum offers interactive exhibits and is a hit with visitors of all ages.

The Imperial War Museum: This museum offers a comprehensive look at conflicts involving Britain and the Commonwealth from World War I to the present day. NFL fans with an interest in strategy, leadership, and history will appreciate the personal stories, artifacts, and immersive exhibits that bring history to life.

The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A): The V&A is the world’s leading museum of art, design, and performance. NFL fans interested in design, fashion, and cultural history will enjoy the museum’s extensive collections, which range from Renaissance sculptures to modern-day photography.

Walking Times

London is a city where history is around every corner. It’s amazing how much you can soak up just by ambling down some of London’s streets.
Here are some must-visit landmarks for NFL fans who want to delve deeper into the city’s past:

The Tower of London: A visit to the Tower of London is like stepping back in time. This historic fortress has served as a royal palace, prison, and treasury. NFL fans interested in stories of intrigue, rebellion, and power will find the tales of the Tower’s famous prisoners and the Crown Jewels captivating. Don’t forget to meet the famous Beefeaters (Yeoman Warders) and learn about their role in guarding the Tower.

The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben: The iconic clock tower, often referred to as Big Ben (though technically it’s the bell inside), and the Houses of Parliament are symbols of British democracy. NFL fans can take a guided tour to learn about the UK’s political history, witness debates, and explore the building’s stunning architecture.

The Churchill War Rooms: A hidden gem beneath the streets of Westminster, the Churchill War Rooms offer a unique insight into Britain’s wartime leadership. NFL fans with an interest in military strategy and history will appreciate exploring the underground bunkers where Winston Churchill and his team made critical decisions during World War II.

St. Paul’s Cathedral: An architectural marvel designed by Sir Christopher Wren, St. Paul’s Cathedral is one of London’s most famous landmarks. NFL fans can climb up to the Whispering Gallery or the Golden Gallery for stunning views of the city. The cathedral’s rich history and grandeur offer a peaceful yet awe-inspiring experience.

Fun Historical Facts for NFL Fans

London is full of intriguing historical stories that connect, even loosely, to American culture and sports. So if you’re looking to impress some of your friends while your out and about in the city, try some of these on:

The Great Fire of London and The Monument: In 1666, a devastating fire swept through London, destroying much of the city. Today, you can climb *The Monument* to the Great Fire of London, built in the late 17th century to commemorate the event. NFL fans interested in resilience, rebuilding, and architectural history will enjoy the climb and the panoramic views at the top.

The Crystal Palace and Early American Football: The original Crystal Palace, which was destroyed by fire in 1936, hosted some of the earliest American football games in London in the early 20th century. These games were a novelty at the time and laid some of the groundwork for the sport’s growing popularity in the UK.

London’s Old Roman Wall: While NFL fans are used to stadiums surrounded by modern infrastructure, London offers a unique chance to explore remnants of its Roman past. Part of London’s Roman Wall still stands today near the Museum of London. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the city’s ancient history and shows how London evolved from a Roman outpost to a modern metropolis.

Market Days

London’s markets offer an authentic taste of local life, providing NFL fans with a great way to experience the city:

Borough Market: One of London’s oldest and most renowned food markets, Borough Market is perfect for food lovers. NFL fans can enjoy diverse culinary delights, from traditional British pies to international dishes like paella and Thai street food. It’s a great spot to grab a bite and soak in the lively atmosphere.

Greenwich Market: Nestled in the heart of Greenwich, this market is known for its handmade crafts, antiques, and street food. It’s a smaller, more intimate experience compared to other markets, perfect for NFL fans looking to pick up unique gifts or enjoy some artisanal treats.

Columbia Road Flower Market: Held every Sunday, this market is a vibrant display of flowers, plants, and gardening supplies. NFL fans who appreciate local culture and charming streets will love wandering through this colourful market in East London.

Park Life

There’s nothing better than a good old park to soak up the sun, and draw out the hangover.
For a relaxing day away from the bustling streets, London’s parks offer NFL fans a serene escape:

Hyde Park: One of London’s largest and most famous parks, Hyde Park is perfect for a stroll, a boat ride on the Serpentine Lake, or simply lounging on the grass. NFL fans can enjoy the mix of natural beauty and historic monuments, such as the *Serpentine Gallery* and the *Diana Memorial Fountain*.

Richmond Park: A bit further from the city centre, Richmond Park is known for its wild deer and expansive green spaces. It’s an excellent spot for NFL fans who enjoy nature and want to experience the quieter side of London.

Hampstead Heath: Located in North London, Hampstead Heath offers stunning views of the city from Parliament Hill. It’s a great place for a hike, a picnic, or just soaking in the natural beauty and enjoying a break from the city’s hustle and bustle. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try to take a dip in one of the ponds.

That gives you a bit of a list from our London To Do 2024, hopefully there are a few things here to tickle your fancy. Feel free to reach out for any questions.

London offers NFL fans an incredible mix of history, culture, and unique experiences, even if it doesn’t have the traditional NFL scene like in the U.S. Whether you’re exploring the historic streets of Greenwich, delving into the world-class exhibits at the British Museum, or enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of London’s markets, there’s something for every fan to enjoy. Bring your adventurous spirit, discover London’s rich heritage, and enjoy everything this diverse city has to offer! Oh yeah, and enjoy the NFL!

NFC Predictions

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With the season less than a week away, the boys have made their NFC Predictions for 2024, and there are quite a few surprises here!

It’s time for another podcast, as Ryan and Wade crank up the season ahead of a very exciting new season. Who will go to the big game? Who is taking their division? Which teams will be sucking donuts this season? The guys go through it all!

To listen to the whole podcast make sure that you click here for some goodness.

Here are a few thoughts from the podcast for all you Lazy Lester’s who don’t like holding out for all the goods.

NFC Predictions

NFC East

This division could either be a stellar battle, or a sad layout of bad coaching and even worse play. The Eagles were a shell of their former selves, the Cowboys are still awaiting contracts to be finalised, the WFT will be ‘re-building’, and the Giants? Who knows?
Ryan has the Eagles taking the division with 11 wins, taking the lead over them ‘Boyz who he is predicting to have a spectacular fall. (as in from grace). Washington will limp out with 8 wins, and he sees the Giants struggling to get 5 wins.
Wade also has the Eagles taking top spot, but thinks that they can get to 12 wins with some coaching changes. Let’s see what the loss of Kelce means to Hurts’ mobility. He also has the Cowboys in second, but sees them winning 10 games at least. Both Wade and Ryan see the Redskins going 8-9, with injury concerns if they run the heck out of their rookie QB. Wade has the Giants only claiming 3 wins this season, in a very frustrating affair.

NFC North

All hail the north! The icy tundra of football was won by the Lions last year, something they haven’t done in decades. Can they take the top spot over the Packers again this season, with the Bears loading up on talent? Oh yeah, and Minnesota.
Ryan is going ‘all-in’ on the Pack to take the north, even being so bold as to think they will go 12-5 on the back of Jordan Love. He sees the Lions sinking to second place, with the Bears getting 9 wins to take third place. He also thinks the Vikings will be lucky to get their 6 wins.
Wade might be a Bears fan, but he still thinks that Detroit is top lock to take this division. His Bears will come in at second place with 10 wins, and the Packers just behind with 9. Love struggled at the start of the season, and there is no reason to think that he is just going to ball out this year, just ’cause. The Vikings take home last spot, just like Ryan.

NFC South

Eesh, the South has been a nasty place for the past few years, with everyone struggle to line up some W’s. Cousins is in ATL now, and with all that talent in place, it’s hard to not see why he won’t come out on top. Baker led the Bucs to a big playoff win last season, and all the weight is on him to shine now that he’s being paid. The Saints hate their QB, as do the Panthers, which is never a good start.
Ryan is big on ATL to take it here, and sees them hitting 11 wins to boot. The rest of the division is due a losing record according to him, with Tampa, New Orleans and Carolina going down in that order.
Wade too likes ATL to win this won with 10 wins, although he sees the Bucs close behind with 9. New also has New Orleans and the Panthers following, but with the cats able to muster 5 wins this year off of some running.

NFC West

The West is best for the past few years, as the 49ers have taken top spot since the Rams won the Super Bowl. Stafford and the boys had a good season last year, so maybe McVay has some things cooking for ’24? Arizona and Seattle are beyond rebuilding, so things need to happen for them this year.
Ryan has the Niners taking top spot, but likes the Seahawks to sneak in just behind with a 10 win season.  He thinks the Rams gave away too much D, and will struggle to contain some of the other high scoring teams. He has the Cards last with an 8 win season.
Wade also has the Niners getting 11 W’s, with the Rams just behind them with 10. He has a tie in 3rd and 4th place, with the Seahawks and Cardinals both getting 7 wins a piece.
That’s it for our NFC Predictions! How many do you think the guys got right?
Spoiler Alert! No one EVER thinks anyone picks the right standings, so go ahead and blast away.
Enjoy the 2024 NFL season everyone!

AFC Predictions

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The summer is almost over, which means that the NFL is back, and it’s time for our AFC Predictions!

Ryan and Wade have slaved over the schedules, building sleuthy algorithms, and getting some crazy info off the deep, dark web.
What does it all mean?
Probably nothing, but the boys are ready for the start of the season, and have a few thoughts as to who will win what and when.

If you want to hear all of their predictions, then why not pop up the podcast and you can listen in full HD sound?

So let’s take a look at some of the thoughts the guys have in each division.

AFC East

For Ryan’s Buffalo Bills, this is going to be another tough season with Aaron Rodgers finally healthy, and the Diggs distraction shuffling off to Houston.
Will Mike McDaniels be able to muster some Tua to kick this season up, or have the fish already jumped the shark of the 2020s’?
As for the Patriots, the only thing people are expecting out of them, is a last place finish in the league.
Wade likes AA-Ron and the Jets to finally see some W’s come their way, after a surprising 2023 season that saw Zach get ditched to Denver.
As for the Bills, Wade thinks that they will fall to second place in the division this year, off the running game of NYJ, not to mention their impressive D.

AFC North

The AFC North may very well be the best division in the NFL at the moment. With Burrow, Jackson, and Watson…wait, who? Ok, the other two guys at least.
Aside from the Steelers, the North is looking pretty stacked heading into ’24, and it is very likely that more than one team from this division will be making it to the post season.
Lingering questions still remain in this division however. Will Burrow be healthy for a full season? Can Lamar shake off his playoff woes? Can DeShaun and the Browns rub out a few good wins this year? Will Mike Tomlin finally eat a losing season?
The boys are divided in this one, with Ryan pipping the Bengals to win 11 games and lead the division, and Wade picking the Ravens to do that very thing.
Whatever happens in this division, look out for some pretty big games!

AFC South

The dirty south got a fresh wash from CJ Stroud and the Texans last year, who made a nice little playoff run despite having so many rookies.
The Texans have marched to the top of the south, while the Jaguars have let their backbone slide with Trevor Lawrence over the past few seasons. Can they only win in London?
Let’s not count out those Colts as well, with JT looking to lead the league in rushing, and Anthony Richardson hoping for an injury free season.
No one needs to worry about the Titans.
Both Ryan and Wade have Houston taking this one with a 12 win season.

AFC West

The West is best if you’re a Chiefs fan, and it’s hard not to see how KC can’t make a run for the Lombardi once again.
Sure, Kansas has had a pretty bad offseason for the squad, but they still have Patrick Mahomes, and that D. They also have the best coaches in the league, which inevitably is what matters.
Harbaugh will have a lot of eyes on him, as he hopes to get the most out of Justin Herbert this season, and try to find some winning ways where previously there were few.
Look for Vegas and Denver to battle it out for the lowest two spots.

Fantasy Time

We have a few spots left in our NFL Fantasy pools this season. We use the NFL app, and will be holding our Draft on Saturday August 31st in the UK afternoon.
Reach out to us if you would like to play for free in our pools!

Best Rookie Years

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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.

Hard Knocking

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The 2024 NFL season is almost upon us, as Ryan and Wade blast out this week’s Hard Knocking podcast. With the Giants finishing their journey on HBO’s Hard Knocks, it’s time to get into the preseason with the Chicago Bears.

If you want to listen to the whole podcast, just click here for the goods.

Training Camp

NFL Training Camp’s have begun, with many veterans looking to wait at home, while others get surprised by injuries. That’s what preseason is baby!
The 2024 NFL preseason has seen fights between teams, amongst teams, and of course across social media as players pip at each other over the release of the NFL Top 100 List.
Justin Herbert has started the worry-train, with a concerning foot injury that could see the Charger sidelined for the first few games of the season. Harbaugh says he should be ready to go for week 1, but do you really want to rush it?
After an impressive turn with the Titans, De’Andre Hopkins will miss a few games due to an injury, which isn’t great when you’re 32 years old. Luckily the Titans still have Ridley and Tyler Boyd, but will Billie Jeans be able to connect with them?
Geno Smith might have started the season brilliantly last year, but it won’t be the same this year, as his knee went bum, forcing the veteran to have to miss a few weeks to recover. Not much is expected in Seattle this year, so maybe it’s good if they finish strong this year.

Dazn

While US viewers have to battle high prices, competition, and a failed payment from the NFL Ticket lawsuit, we in the UK have to deal with the new and improved Gamepass from Dazn.
When Gamepass first launched in the UK, it was atrocious, but Deltatre and their team quickly moved to rectify the issues, while the fans forced them to cancel their social media accounts. It was a dark storm, but eventually they released a product that most NFL fans in Europe were happy to purchase yearly.
The Dazn launch hasn’t gone as smoothly, with issues last year popping up almost weekly. Luckily, we’re not involved in the drama, but we were witness to the fan forums, league chatter, and fans contacting us directly to complain. (we have nothing to do with Gamepass).
2024 hasn’t gotten off to a great start, with the price jumping up once again, and fans being offered different prices for the same product. Some lucky fans were even able to grab the whole package for less than £50 by cancelling and getting a new offer within hours in the early days, but that has since faded.
UK fans should be happy that we only have the Dazn issue, and that we don’t have to do the USA dance between YouTube, Peacock, and Netflix. Sky only shows 2 games per Sunday, so there are ways to pay per view, watch at a bar etc when your team plays.
The NFL needs to worry about the Firestick revolution. Facebook is awash with daily ads for streaming services, and since most are based in Russia and the Middle East, it’s unlikely they will ever be punished. True streaming pros are now buying bespoke ‘boxes’, which not only offer 50000 channels, but build in encryption so that internet companies are clueless.
As for us, we’re still on Team Gamepass, and are confident that Dazn will get it right, if UK NFL fans continue to make their voices clear. The company has proven they’re listening, so give them a chance before you go dodgy.

NFL Fantasy

Want to join our NFL Fantasy Leagues? We’re running our ‘C’ League and ‘D’ Leagues this year to compliment a few others. A 32 person league that’s free, and using the NFL app.
Send us an email at mapleyankeesports@gmail.com to reserve your spot.