NFL in London

National Football League in London

2024 NFL london

Writers Wanted

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Writers wanted NFL fans in London and beyond! Are you passionate about American football and have a flair for writing? NFL in London is seeking talented wordsmiths to join our team and help bring the excitement of the NFL to a global audience to join our NFL team. As we expand our coverage of American football in the UK and beyond, we’re looking for fresh voices to contribute engaging content to our platform.
Hate the Packers? Bring it. Cowboys fan with plenty to say? Jot it down. Panthers fan who thinks ‘this is the year’? WTF bud?
Nothing is off limits, except hate or product placements. 

The Position

We’re on the hunt for writers who can craft compelling, opinion-based articles about the NFL, with a particular focus on the league’s presence in London and its global impact. This is an opportunity to share your unique perspective on America’s favourite sport with an international readership.
Whether it’s where to watch the games, things to do in the city, or even cool history about the games in London and beyond.
We’re looking for writers of all opinions. 

Key Responsibilities

– Produce original, thought-provoking content about the NFL

– Focus on NFL games in London and the sport’s growing international presence

– Offer fresh insights and analysis on teams, players, and league developments

– Engage with readers through your unique voice and style

The Team

At NFL in London, we’re more than just a website – we’re a community of football enthusiasts dedicated to growing the sport’s presence across the pond. Our team consists of passionate writers, podcasters, and content creators who live and breathe American football. We started this way back in 2008, and since then we’ve hosted events at Wembley, Tottenham, the Hippodrome Casino, and all across London. By joining us, for our Writers Wanted pitch you’ll become part of a dynamic group that’s already carved out a niche across Facebook, Insta, our podcast, and our live events.
We’re always looking for promoters as well, and happy to create unique marketing campaigns for any bars looking to bring in NFL fans. 

Ideal Skills and Qualifications

– Strong writing abilities with a knack for engaging storytelling

– In-depth knowledge of the NFL, its teams, players, and history

– Understanding of the sport’s growing international appeal, especially in the UK

– Ability to meet deadlines and produce consistent, high-quality content

– Familiarity with SEO best practices is a plus, but not required

-Graphic design/ video editing skills

Content Guidelines

– Articles should be a minimum of 700 words

– Keep the content family-friendly’ish – no vulgar language or team hate

– Avoid promotional content or product placement

– All submissions must be original and not solely generated by AI

Benefits

While this is currently an unpaid position, the exposure and opportunities it provides are valuable:

– Your work will reach an audience of over 50,000 readers

– Potential to join our NFL in London podcast as a guest or regular contributor

– Opportunities to attend NFL training camps and gain behind-the-scenes access

– Involvement in NFL London games, including potential press access

– Build your portfolio and gain recognition in the sports writing community

NFL 2024 and Beyond

As the NFL continues to expand its international presence, particularly in London, your role as a writer for NFL in London will put you at the centre of this exciting growth. You’ll have the opportunity to cover:

– The increasing number of NFL games played in London

– The potential for a permanent NFL franchise in the UK

– The development of homegrown British talent in American football

– The cultural impact of the NFL’s expansion into new markets

How to Apply

Ready to join our team? Here’s how to throw your hat in the ring:

1. Submit a 700-word sample article on any NFL-related topic and include ‘Writers Wanted’ anywhere in your response 

2. Include a brief bio and any relevant writing experience

3. Share your ideas for future articles or content series

4. Send your application to mapleyankeesports@gmail.com with the title Writers Wanted-(your name) 

Not a Writer?

We’re always on the lookout for creative content in various formats. If you have ideas for videos, memes, infographics, or other innovative ways to engage our audience, we want to hear from you too!

This is more than just a writing gig – it’s a chance to be part of the NFL’s exciting journey across London the globe. Whether you’re a seasoned sports writer or a passionate fan with a talent for words, we want to hear your voice. Join the NFL in London team and help us share the thrill of American football with fans around the world! We’re on the way with video as well, so throw us your best Hail Mary. 

History of the Washington Redskins

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Perhaps one of the most iconic and controversial teams in the NFL has been the “Washington Redksins”-aka the Commanders, aka the WFT, aka who know who they will be next?

From the early years as an NFL dynasty in a tight league, to the Dan Snyder years, the team from the capital has always drawn big eyeballs. 

So let’s take a look at the history of the Washington Redskins, and why the team has only appeared in London once over the years. 

Origins and Early Years

The team known today (for now) as the Washington Commanders has a rich and controversial history that begins long before their recent name change. Originally founded in 1932, the franchise was initially based in Boston and was known as the Boston Braves. The following year, the team changed its name to the Boston Redskins. In 1937, the team relocated to Washington, D.C., becoming the Washington Redskins, a name that would stick for over 80 years. After 80 years, it became unstuck, which is where we are now.

Early Success and Championships

The move to Washington, D.C. coincided with immediate success on the field. In their first year in the capital, the Redskins won the NFL Championship, defeating the Chicago Bears. The team repeated this success in 1942, cementing its place as one of the NFL’s early powerhouses. These victories were largely due to the efforts of star players like Sammy Baugh, a pioneering quarterback known for his versatile skills. It seems that a move to the nation’s capital was a big boon for Washington and the team.

Controversies and Name Issues

The name “Redskins” has been a subject of controversy for decades. Critics argued that it was offensive and perpetuated harmful stereotypes about Native Americans. Despite mounting pressure from various groups and the broader public, the team retained the name until 2020. The debate reached a tipping point during the social justice movements of that year, leading the team to temporarily adopt the name Washington Football Team before rebranding as the Washington Commanders in 2022.
Despite numerous native groups protesting that the name was indeed ‘respectful’, many Liberal-mobsters jumped on them, proving the issue is far too contentious now.

Famous Players and Legendary Moments

The Redskins boast a roster of legendary players who have left an indelible mark on the game. Beyond Sammy Baugh, notable figures include John Riggins, whose powerful running helped the team win Super Bowl XVII. Joe Theismann, the charismatic quarterback, led the Redskins to victory in Super Bowl XVII and was instrumental in the team’s success during the 1980s. 

Art Monk, a prolific wide receiver, set numerous records and was a key player during the Redskins’ successful runs in the 1980s and early 1990s. Defensive end Dexter Manley was another standout, known for his pass-rushing prowess. Under the leadership of head coach Joe Gibbs, the Redskins won three Super Bowl titles (XVII, XXII, and XXVI), solidifying their reputation as one of the NFL’s elite teams.

The Redskins in the UK

The Washington Redskins have also made their mark across the pond. As part of the NFL’s International Series, they played a regular-season game in London at Wembley Stadium in 2016. This game against the Cincinnati Bengals ended in a dramatic 27-27 tie, showcasing the excitement and unpredictability of American football to UK fans. The match was a significant event, as it highlighted the growing popularity of the NFL in the United Kingdom and provided British fans with an opportunity to see their favorite players in action. That was however the last match London has seen for the WFT, beckoning the question as to when we will see Washington back in the UK again?

Modern Era and Rebranding

The modern era for the franchise has been one of transformation and adaptation. The rebranding to the Washington Commanders represents a new chapter, aiming to honor the team’s storied past while embracing a future of inclusivity and respect. This period has also seen the team strive to return to its former glory, with a focus on building a competitive squad through savvy draft picks and free-agent acquisitions.

Looking Ahead

As the Washington Commanders, the franchise is poised for a new era, building on its rich history while addressing past controversies. The team continues to engage with its fan base, both in the U.S. and internationally, with hopes of creating more memorable moments and legendary players for future generations. Now that Dan Snyder and his reign are over, perhaps the team can get back to trying to win their division, something that hasn’t been done for decades.

The history of the Washington Redskins is a tapestry of triumphs, controversies, and legendary figures. From their early days in Boston to their rebranding as the Washington Commanders, the team has navigated the complexities of modern sports culture. For UK fans, the Redskins’ visit to London remains a highlight, exemplifying the global reach of American football. As the Commanders, the franchise looks forward to writing the next chapter in its storied history, striving for excellence both on and off the field.

So…should they change their name?

Top 10 Biggest Scandals in NFL History

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The NFL is known for putting out a family friendly product every Sunday, but that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t always go to plan.
Sometimes the league has to get involved when teams or owners try to push the envelope too far, or worse yet, find themselves mired in controversy. 

So let’s take a look at the “Top 10 Biggest Scandals in NFL History”, and look back some of the more awkward experiences that the league has had to glaze over. 

Yes, we did forget some of them. No, it’s not on purpose. Yes, we’ll cover those in another article.  

Today, we’re diving into the seedy underbelly of the NFL to explore the top 10 biggest scandals that have rocked the league. Grab your popcorn and your foam finger, folks – this is going to be a wild ride!

1. Deflategate: The Ballsy Controversy

In 2015, the New England Patriots found themselves in hot water when it was discovered that their footballs were softer than a marshmallow in a microwave. Quarterback Tom Brady was accused of orchestrating this nefarious plot to gain an advantage, leading to a saga that lasted longer than most NFL careers. The league tried to sweep it under the rug, but the scandal had more air time than a blimp at the Super Bowl.

Tommy has always maintained that he ‘had no idea’ about the balls being deflated, but his recent Netflix roast might pump some air into that claim.

2. Spygate: The Patriots’ Peeping Tom Moment

Before Deflategate, there was Spygate. In 2007, the Patriots were caught videotaping the New York Jets’ defensive signals, proving that Bill Belichick’s playbook might have included a chapter on espionage. The NFL destroyed the tapes faster than a teenager clearing their browser history, leaving us all wondering what other secrets were hidden in that grainy footage.

For those of you still wondering, a ‘videocamera’ was a device used in the late 90s’ early 2000s’ to capture a parents joy at their eldest child. They of course were replaced with smartphones, as were parents in 2021. 

3. The CTE Cover-Up: Not Just Another Headache

For years, the NFL tried to downplay the link between football and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disease. It took a Hollywood movie and Will Smith’s accent in “Concussion” to bring this issue to the forefront. The league’s initial response was about as effective as using a Band-Aid for a broken leg.

Now we have seen the full blown effects of CTE, and with the amount of head trauma and pain still circling the league, these will be 3 letters we will be hearing a lot more from in coming years. 

4. The Ray Rice Elevator Incident: A Knockout Blow to the NFL’s Reputation

When video footage emerged of Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice knocking out his fiancée in an elevator, the NFL’s initial two-game suspension seemed about as appropriate as wearing flip-flops to a black-tie event. The league’s fumbling of this domestic violence case led to a major overhaul of its personal conduct policy and a collective facepalm heard ’round the world.

The NFL can’t be there to police players everyday during the offseason, but hopefully there is space for more mental health and domestic relationship training for some of these players. 

5. Bountygate: When Football Turned into The Hunger Games

In 2012, it was revealed that the New Orleans Saints had been running a bounty program, paying players to injure opponents. Suddenly, “Who Dat?” became “Who Hurt Dat?” The NFL came down hard on the Saints, but not before the scandal exposed the dark underbelly of football’s violent nature.

Let’s be honest, putting ‘bounties’ on players is nothing new, but it’s usually in the arena of hockey that this happens. ‘Bountygate’ but an ugly word on a practise that was already happening in the league for decades. 

6. The 1925 NFL Championship Controversy: Granddaddy of All Scandals

Let’s take a trip down memory lane to 1925, when the Pottsville Maroons were stripped of their NFL title due to a territorial dispute. This might be ancient history, but it’s proof that the NFL has been sweeping things under the rug since before rugs were invented.

Despite ‘winning’ the title game over the Chicago Cardinals, the Maroons were deemed to have ‘cheated’ by playing an exhibition game and violating ‘territorial rights.’
There was a lot of no-goodery going on back in the 1920s’. 

7. The NFL’s Tax-Exempt Status: A Financial Hail Mary

For years, the NFL operated as a tax-exempt organization, despite raking in billions. It was like claiming your pet goldfish as a dependent – technically legal, but raising more than a few eyebrows. The league finally gave up this status in 2015, presumably when someone pointed out that “non-profit” and “multi-billion-dollar industry” don’t exactly go hand in hand.

Just like a mega-church, the NFL became the biggest deity on Sundays, but that doesn’t mean that they are beyond the tithe. Many still complain that the NFL brings in ‘too much money’, which is something that the NFL does not complain about. 

8. The Washington Commanders’ Workplace Culture: A Toxic Stew

Recent investigations into the Washington Commanders (formerly Redskins) revealed a workplace culture that was about as welcoming as a cactus patch. From sexual harassment to financial improprieties, this scandal had more layers than a linebacker’s game-day outfit. The NFL’s initial response was slower than a defensive lineman in a marathon.

Dan Snyder might go down as the most ‘POS’ owner to have ever owned a team, until you look at some of the old chestnuts who have owned teams before him. Take a cold shower Snyder, and make sure you film yourself like you did those cheerleaders. 

9. The NFL’s Handling of Colin Kaepernick: Taking a Knee, Giving a Cold Shoulder

When Colin Kaepernick began kneeling during the national anthem to protest racial injustice, the NFL’s response was about as smooth as a quarterback trying to catch his own pass. The league’s attempts to sidestep the issue led to accusations of blackballing and a settlement that probably cost more than most Super Bowl commercials.

Take a knee, don’t take a knee, Colin K still maintains that he is ‘ready to play’ in the NFL again. Our knees will most likely give out before that ever happens again. 

10. The St. Louis Rams Relocation Lawsuit: Show Me the Money!

The NFL’s handling of the Rams’ move from St. Louis to Los Angeles was about as transparent as a brick wall. The ensuing lawsuit revealed that the league had potentially violated its own relocation guidelines, leading to a settlement that made team owners check their couch cushions for spare change.

Art Modell could have told them that the best way to do it, would be to load up some trucks in the middle of the night and shuffle off. Cheaper, and way more surprising. 

From deflated balls to inflated egos, the NFL has seen its fair share of scandals. While the league often tries to sweep these controversies under the astroturf, they serve as reminders that even America’s favourite sport isn’t immune to fumbles off the field.
We didn’t even get into the slew of drunk and dangerous driving charges that teams are now facing on a yearly basis, (talking to you Chiefs!)

In fact the legacy of the Chiefs from 2017 to the present is quite riddled with questionable behaviour and a shocking amount of drunken stupidity. 

As fans, we’re left to wonder what the next big scandal will be. Will it involve performance-enhancing avocado ice cream? Perhaps we’ll discover that the referees have been making calls based on Magic 8 Balls all along. Whatever it is, one thing’s for certain: the NFL will be there, ready with a broom and a very large rug.

So the next time you settle in for some football, remember that behind the touchdowns and tackles lies a league with more secrets than a spy novel. But hey, that’s just part of the game, right? Now, if you’ll excuse us, we need to go check if our fantasy football league has a bounty program.

London Games 2024

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We can all breathe a collective sigh of relief as the NFL has finally released the upcoming schedule, allowing us to know who is playing in the London Games 2024. Once again it looks like the UK is in for another set of great games, Germany-not so much.

The 2024 has given us a whole new set of viewing parameters for the season, with the Chiefs playing on six different days of the week, the Jets feasting on primetime games, and the Panthers sucking on a big old bag of nothing. So much to think about, and the season hasn’t even started yet!

Let’s look at the London games we have lined up for October 2024.

Jets vs Vikings-Oct 6-Tottenham

Aaron Rodgers is coming to London folks-if he’s healthy, as the first game up is an AFC/ NFC contest.
Minnesota has moved up at QB, and with the talent they have at wide receivers , this could be a matchup between two winning teams.

Early October in London is usually sunny and sweet, so we should also benefit from some balmy temperatures, and great events hosted by the NFLUK.

As the first up of the trio, this one will certainly be of media interest, as Aaron Rodgers is a constant celebrity, and full of soundbites that should tickle the UK media.

Jaguars vs Bears-Oct 13-Tottenham

Bears fans all over Europe will be salivating over this one, as they finally get to see a potential franchise quarterback in the making. Chicago already has a home nation status for England, which means that the Bears will go full out to make sure that this game will go down in the history books.

Jacksonville went 2-0 in their 2023 London games, even busting down the Buffalo Bills in a dramatic game. Then their season went downhill, so it will be interesting to see if Trevor Lawrence will be able to rebound in 2024 as they look to play in London twice again.

Patriots vs Jaguars-Oct 20-Wembley

The Jags host a second game at home, as they take on New England in an AFC showdown. Ok, maybe not a showdown, as the Pats have been less than stellar without that TB12 magic.

The Patriots are committed to Drake Make, and with the recent social image of him looking like Tom Brady’s son, there is hope once again in the loins of Boston. They have a tough division though, so they might be walking into London with a few wins.

It might not be the most popular of the games, but with recent news of new international destinations, this could be the last time that London sees a 3 game set for a while.

Internationals

Other NFL global games to watch out for are the week 1 match between the Packers and Eagles in Brazil on September 6th. This will be a tough test for Jordan Love against an Eagles squad looking for some NFC respect, and they have been starting strong the past few seasons.

Germany gets a bit of coin flip from last year’s AFC behemoth, as they get saddled with a lowly game between the Giants and Panthers in Week 10 on November 10th. Again, it’s easy to make quick snides like this, but who knows what could happen this year with two QBs with massive chips on their shoulders.

Other news this week tips Ireland and Australia for other upcoming potential international destinations.
Tough luck for Canada, who probably ruined their chances by hosting atrocious games in the past, and will probably never see one again unless a billionaire is able to buy a team.

Podcast

Our new podcast is up! So why not have a great listen to the boys ramble on about all the latest NFL news, including the international games, summertime blues, and how Netflix is making out in the streaming.

Tom Brady Roast Review

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With the NFL season still months away, fans are Jonesing for anything football related to satiate the feels, so when Netflix released the Roast of Tom Brady on Sunday, fans were thrilled to get a bit of football to soothe those DTs.

So was it any good? Is it worth watching? Does TB12 cry? Let’s break some of it all down in our Tom Brady Roast Review.

Roasts

Anyone with a love of comedy will remember the notorious Friar’s Club Roasts that emerged out of a vaudeville era. As the Roasts grew in the 70s’, so was the appetite for celebrities to be roasted by famous comedians and other celebs to validate their ego in a slosh filled affair.

When comedian Jeffrey Ross pushed to reinvigorate the format in the early 2000s’, we were treated to some of the most outrageous and bawdy comedic lines in history. The Roasts of David Hasselhoff and Pamela Anderson had the likes of Greg Goraoldo, Lisa Lampanelli, and some of the harshest take downs in history.

Recently however, celebrities have been coy to attend given that any of their past deeds to could be brought up, and flashed in their face. To put it plainly, celebs today are too much of a pussy to take it.

Brady Steps Up

Is was good of Tom Brady to put himself up for this, even if it was probably his management to add a bit of humanity to him before his Fox gig.

Brady was a good sport about the various digs about his failed marriage, leaving a pregnant ex, and deflating balls. It seems that the only thing that really irked Tommy was when Jeff Ross made a masturbatory joke at the expense of Robert Kraft, which caused Tom to get out of his seat and remonstrate Ross with a quick ‘don’t do that shit again.’

Apparently there were boundaries.

The Niki Glaser Show

They might as well have given the whole roast to comedian Niki Glaser, who was most definitely the funniest person on the dais Sunday night. Anyone who says ‘women aren’t funny’ might want to see the master craft set that Niki blasted at Tom in a relentless fashion.

Cool, collected and with impeccable Swiss timing, Glaser was able to set the bar so high, that even Randy Moss seemed high when he followed her. Her shots at Gronk were so savage, it’s doubtful that he even got them.

Niki is one of the ‘old school’ roasters on the panel, and it was easy to see why she was the best, and so hard to follow.

Jew Bledsoe

Aside from the typical American race-bait jokes, it was interesting to see Drew Bledsoe toss a little antisemitism Julian Edleman’s way. Not only did Drew shade Edelman’s heritage, but also threw in a few ‘Jewy’ jokes about him haggling his own contract, and be able to switch from a nickel to a dime with added value.

Bledsoe extolled the virtues of winery and marriage, neither of which seemed to be in attendance that night as he was cast off to the side by himself.

Kim K

It wouldn’t be LA (or Englewood) without having a Kardashian at the Roast, as Kim represented her clan to a shower of boos from the home crowd.

Despite the assistance of numerous writers, Kardashian, like many non-comics struggled to get the belly laughs, and consistent ribbing.

Tom was able to lob a funny ‘Kanye’ fathering joke at Kim, which deflated any reason for her to be there.

Roasts are a good indicator of the ‘natural funny’ of a person, and Kim certainly doesn’t have it.

Where’s the Booze?

For a 3+ hour affair that is usually flushed with booze, most of the panel seemed to hold an empty glass for most of the evening.

Drew Bledsoe was wireless as he talked about being winless, Brady had 2 empty glasses on the go, and Kevin Hart seemed like he was smashed from the start, and got drunker and surlier as the night went on.

Although Bill Belichick was never shown drinking, he bounced around that microphone like he had a few. And when Brady hit him later with the dig about doing the dirty and getting caught on a Ring, well that was just hilarious.

All in all it was a fun roast, but  along roast. Netflix will be hoping to smash more of these sports events down our throats to atone for those years of ‘wokrness’, but it will be interesting to see if anyone will have the stones to be able to take a good bashing.

Good on Tom Brady for taking it.