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?
