NFL in London

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Top Offseason Signings

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If you’re feeling dizzy, that’s because the 2024 NFL season has officially begun, with some stunning moves being made across the league. With many NFL teams crying salary cap broke, others made some big splashes to try to fill in the numerous gaps in their lines. 

There were eye-watering deals like the move the Falcons made to land an ageing Kirk Cousins, or the Bears fire sale of Justin Fields. The 2024 NFL free agency period was full of big names changing teams and massive contracts being handed out. Several franchises made splashy moves to reload their rosters, while others made shrewd value signings.

Let’s take a look at some of the Top Offseason Signings in the NFL. 

Top Signings

Danielle Hunter to Houston

Edge rusher Danielle Hunter scored the biggest payday of the offseason by signing a two-year, $49 million contract with the Houston Texans. At age 29, Hunter was the top pass rusher available and the Texans paid a premium to add him to their defensive line. His deal includes $48 million fully guaranteed. 

After racking up 60.5 sacks over the previous five seasons with the Minnesota Vikings, Hunter gives the Texans a much-needed boost in their pass rush. He has been one of the most disruptive forces in the league and will make the Texans that much more fierce for 2024. 

Christian Wilkins Cashes in with Raiders

Star defensive tackle Christian Wilkins parlayed his breakout season into a massive payday, signing a four-year, $110 million contract with the Las Vegas Raiders that includes $84.75 million guaranteed. It makes the 27-year-old the second highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL.

Wilkins had 10.5 sacks and 98 total pressures for the Miami Dolphins in 2023 after totaling just 11 sacks over his first four seasons. The Raiders are betting big that his stellar 2023 was no fluke as they add Wilkins to pair with Maxx Crosby on an improving defensive line.

Josh Jacobs Signs Big Extension with Packers

The Green Bay Packers paid a premium to bring in solid running back Josh Jacobs from the Las Vegas Raiders , signing him to a four-year, $48 million contract with $14.8 million coming in the first year. It’s a significant deal for a running back in today’s pass-happy NFL.

Calvin Ridley Tennessee Bound

Wide receiver Calvin Ridley will be taking balls from Will Levis,  signing a lucrative four-year, $92 million deal with the Tennessee Titans that includes $50 million fully guaranteed. It’s a big investment for a player who missed the entire 2022 season while suspended for betting on NFL games.

Ridley, who turns 29 in December, had back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons in 2020 and 2021 with the Atlanta Falcons before being hit with the year-long ban. The former first-round pick should immediately become the No. 1 wideout for the Titans and a top target for whichever quarterback is under center, if Billy Jeans isn’t what the Titans are looking for. 

Notable Moves

Defensive Stars Cashing In

  • Edge rusher Danielle Hunter signed a massive 2-year, $49 million deal with the Houston Texans that includes $48 million guaranteed. Hunter joins the Texans after a productive 5-year run with the Vikings.
  • Defensive tackle Christian Wilkins parlayed a standout season into a 4-year, $110 million contract with the Las Vegas Raiders that has $84.75 million guaranteed. Wilkins will team up with Maxx Crosby on the Raiders defensive line.  
  • The Miami Dolphins re-signed defensive tackle DaQuan Jones to a 2-year, $16 million deal with $10.5 million fully guaranteed.

Quarterbacks on the Move

  • The Pittsburgh Steelers acquired Justin Fields from the Chicago Bears in exchange for a 2025 conditional Day 3 pick. It didn’t cost much, and might see Fields challenging Russell Wilson for field time. 
  • Russell Wilson signed a 1-year deal with the Steelers after his release from Denver for $1.2 million a year, in a deal that still costs the Broncos for years. 
  • Gardner Minshew inked a 2-year, $25 million contract with $15 million guaranteed to join the Raiders, and should help moustache sales in Nevada.
  • Sam Howell was the ‘man’ in Washington last year, now he’s off to the Seahawks in a trade for future picks. Hopefully he doesn’t get sacked as much on theist coast. 

Running Backs Secure the Bag

  • Tony Pollard joined the Tennessee Titans on a 3-year, $24 million deal.
  • The Texans acquired Joe Mixon from the Bengals in exchange for a 7th-round pick.
  • Aaron Jones will face his former Packers twice a year after signing with the division rival Vikings in a 1 year, $7 million deal 

Wide Receiver Trades/Signings

  • Jerry Jeudy was traded from the Broncos to the Browns for two Day 3 picks.
  • Keenan Allen was dealt from the Chargers to the Bears for a 4th-round selection. Old man Allen should give Caleb Williams some veteran leadership in Chicago.
  • Darnell Mooney hasn’t broken 1000 yards yet, but the Atlanta Falcons are hoping to take the former Bear to new heights in a 3 year deal with $26 million guaranteed.
  • The Eagles moved more money around to snag DeVante Parker on a 1 year deal. 

Offensive Line Movement

  • Guard Robert Hunt signed a huge 5-year, $100 million deal with the Panthers that includes $26.5 million guaranteed.  
  • Center Lloyd Cushenberry joined the Titans on a 4-year, $50 million contract with $26 million guaranteed.
  • The Patriots re-signed guard Mike Onwenu to a 3-year, $57 million deal with $38 million guaranteed.

Of course that’s not the end of the news for the 2024 NFL season, but that’s what we have for you right now.
Make sure you check back here or listen to our podcast for all the latest news. 

To find the latest episode of the podcast, just click here.

London NFL Stadium Guide

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The NFL has been coming to London for over 40 years now, and show no signs of slowing down with the league announcing international games at an increasing level every year.
So which London stadiums have played a part in the NFL, and where can you find them? 

Let’s step into the vibrant tapestry of London’s sporting scene, where the echoes of cheering crowds and the excitement of athletic endeavours converge in majestic stadiums. Join us as we embark on a journey through the iconic venues that define London’s sporting legacy, from the hallowed grounds of football to the thrilling spectacles of NFL action.
It’s our London NFL Stadium Guide!

Wembley Stadium: A Monument to Sporting Greatness

Wembley Stadium stands as a towering symbol of sporting excellence, with a capacity surpassing 90,000 spectators. Since its inception in 1923, this legendary venue has witnessed countless historic football matches, including FA Cup finals and international showdowns. Since 2007, Wembley tops the London list-having hosted a whopping 25 NFL games since then, including some truly magical games.
Wembley is quickly becoming the home of the Jacksonville Jaguars, as they continue to make in-roads into the UK and Europe.

Tottenham Hotspur Stadium: Where Innovation Meets Athleticism

Enter the futuristic realm of Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, a modern marvel that sets new standards for sporting excellence. Since its inauguration in 2019, this state-of-the-art arena has captivated fans with its innovative design and electrifying atmosphere, having hosted 7 NFL regular season games since opening. With a seating capacity exceeding 62,000 and boasting a stadium to ‘keep people in’, it serves as the battleground for Tottenham Hotspur’s footballing dreams.
Tottenham is the only UK stadium that was purpose built for North American sports, and has set a template for other stadiums in Europe to follow. 

Twickenham Stadium: Rugby’s Regal Domain

Nestled amidst the serene surroundings of Twickenham, this majestic stadium reigns supreme as the Mecca of rugby union. Boasting a capacity exceeding 82,000, Twickenham Stadium has played host to some of the sport’s most memorable moments, from epic Six Nations clashes to Rugby World Cup showdowns. Twickenham was also home to London NFL games from 2016-2017, hosting 3 games in southwest London. Known for having food vendors selling food in front of their houses near the stadium, Twickenham served as a placeholder stadium while the Tottenham stadium was being built. 

Saracens Rugby Ground: A Fusion of Sporting Cultures

While not a traditional stadium, Saracens Rugby Ground holds a unique place in London’s sporting tapestry. As the training grounds for NFL teams before their London fixtures, it serves as a hub where rugby and American football intersect. Amidst the lush green fields of rugby majesty, NFL stars prepare for the rigours of game day, showcasing the city’s diverse sporting offerings. Given the proximity to The Grove Hotel where many NFL teams stay, Saracens Rugby Ground will continue to be the place where teams get ready before their London showcase. 

Emirates Stadium: Arsenal’s Fortress of Football

In the bustling borough of Islington stands Emirates Stadium, the proud home of Arsenal Football Club. With a capacity surpassing 60,000, it’s a cathedral of football that has witnessed countless moments of triumph and glory. While Emirates Stadium has yet to host NFL action, its status as a premier footballing venue underscores its significance in London’s sporting landscape.
It would take some serious renovation work to get Emirates stadium ready for an NFL game, it’s a great venue to check out when you’re in London and want to catch a bit of footie. 

In the dynamic metropolis of London, where sporting passions run deep and the spirit of competition thrives, the grandest stadiums stand as monuments to athleticism and communal fervour. From footballing cathedrals to the thrilling allure of NFL action, these iconic venues offer a glimpse into the heart and soul of London’s vibrant sporting scene. So, whether you’re cheering on your favourite football team or marvelling at the athleticism of NFL stars, prepare to be swept away on a journey of sporting splendour unlike any other.
Next time you come to London, why not check out some of the iconic stadiums? 

Week 9 Picks

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The NFL is off to Frankfurt this week, as Wade and Ryan offer up their Week 9 Picks podcast.

The clocks are back on the 5 hour difference to the east coast, and we have a pretty good slate of games lined up for Week 9, so who’s going to win?

Make sure that you check our our full podcast here so that you can listen to the guys rattle off all of the games.

Here is the link for you to find it!

Dolphins (6-2) vs -2.5 Chiefs (6-2)  +50.5

We’re off to Frankfurt early Sunday, for the first game in Germany for 2023.
It’s always tough for teams to go into a stadium that they have never played before, especially in another country, where they speak a whole new language.
Miami got the jump on the Chiefs, arriving earlier in the week to get accommodated to playing in Germany. For the past few years this has provided a bit of an advantage to teams, as it allows them to get sorted, get on schedule, and adjust to weather and all the other bits.
The Chiefs are coming off a stink-loss to the Broncos, as well as a nasty flu that ravaged the locker room and saw them deliver their most limp game in ages. It was also the first time the Broncos beat the Chiefs since the Peyton Manning era.
Ryan likes the Chiefs in this one, as Miami has struggled to beat teams with a winning record. Andy Reid doesn’t do 2 losses in a row, so he likes the Chiefs and Mahomes ready to rip it against a struggling Dolphins D.
Wade likes the Dolphins for arriving early, and thinks that it will be a big advantage to getting them on the board. He also doesn’t think that they will hit the over, as both teams will be tepid on this new turf.
Ryan-Chiefs 27 Dolphins 23
Wade-Dolphins 25 Chiefs 20

Seattle (5-2) vs -6 Ravens (6-2)  +43

Another great game of teams with wining records is the early game between the Ravens and Seahawks.
Seattle has been surprising people this year with their solid D, strong running game, and adequate play of Geno Smith.
The Seahawks will see themselves tested against a very feisty Baltimore D.
Baltimore on the other hand seems to have finally found their momentum, as they have started to sling together some strong wins. Early injury problems seem to have been sorted, as well as Lamar Jackson ripping those who haven’t been delivering.
Ryan likes the Ravens at home, but thinks that they will have their hands full with that D, as well as trying to contain Geno and the running game.
Wade thinks that this game will be the one where we see just how fragile the Seahawks really are.
The Ravens smell blood in the AFC North water, and they have begun to circle for legs.
Ryan-Ravens 28 Seahawks 26
Wade-Ravens 28 Seahawks 20

Other Games

If you’re looking for some other top tips on games, the guys each have some that they think are going to be winner-winner, chicken dinners on Sunday.

Ryan

  • Falcons comfortably beat the Vikings
  • Packers beat the Rams at home
  • Bucs upset the Texans

Wade

  • Washington upsets the Patriots
  • Bears cover against the Saints
  • Cowboys upset the Eagles

That’s it for our Week 9 Picks, make sure that you listen to the whole podcast, share it; like it; lick it; stamped it, no rub outs.

We also have our Weekly DraftKings League-NFL in London where we have paid and free contests going every Sunday.
Join along and play with us!

Also make sure you check out and like and follow our Facebook page.
That way you can stay up to date with all the NFL in London news!

 

Ravens Titans London

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It’s the final week of the UK tour, as we host the Ravens Titans London this weekend.

What kinds of things are there to do? What’s fun around this weekend?

Saturday

Sports

Do you like the Rugby World Cup? You better, because it will be the mainstay on pub TVs this weekend with all of the big clubs playing in the semi finals.

Wales play Argentina at 4pm and then the mighty Irish face off against the All Blacks of New Zealand in  a stunning 8pm match.
If you haven’t watched any rugby before and you’re new to the UK, make it a point to go to a gritty pub to catch the games in all their glory.

Wales and Ireland both boast London pubs that are traditionally home front, but you can find the game on at MOST pubs with a TV on in the country.

You might be able to catch NCAA Football at Belushi’s London Bridge.

Football (soccer) is on a break this weekend, so there is also plenty of other things to do if rugby isn’t your thing.

Sunday

Tottenham Game

It looks like there are still some tickets available for Sunday, but please make sure you get them from an accredited seller. Facebook isn’t a good place for that.

Weather looks cool and sunny, 10c (50f), so make sure you bring a jumper/ sweater, or be prepared to pay £100 for a jersey to keep you warm.

If you’re looking for things to do in the area, make sure that you check our previous post about things to do in Tottenham.
With no football on, these places will have more spaces for pre and post game parties.

Transit wise, it all looks easy and breezy, but give your self an extra 15% time cushion just in case Sunday traffic does its thing.

Tailgreeter Thames Cruise

Don’t forget the folks from the US Tailgreeter are hosting a wicked cool cruise across the Thames this Sunday morning before the game.

Cruise starts at 9am EST, and finishes at 1pm EST, plus you get a coach ride direct to Tottenham stadium in time for kick off.

Use promo code NFLLONDON for a FREE drink.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84622320097?pwd=UE14WStnbU51MkZTOEZlK0ZycDZWZz09

Week 6 Picks

It’s Week 6 already, holy geez, as we’re almost a third of the day through the season.

We have the last of the London games, and a slew of meh games on for the early slate.

Turning frowns upside down, Ryan and Wade make all of their picks for the week 6 of games, including Ravens Titans London.

Listen to all the gold right here.

In this podcast we also chat to Gurmeet Sahni from the new Fantasy GameDay App.
Did you know that there is a new daily NFL Fantasy App exclusively for UK players?
Fantasy GameDay App is a uniquely UK experience, allowing users to bank a higher calibre of an NFL roster, with a 20% payout rate to winners, and an easy to use interface.
You can hear all about it in the podcast, or click here for more info.

London Game

-4 Ravens (3-2) vs Titans (2-3)  +41

It’s the finale of the UK tour for the NFL, as the Tennessee Titans host the Baltimore Ravens in an AFC grudge match.
The Ravens thumbed themselves in the butt last week against the Steelers, frustrating Lamar Jackson who must be wondering to what happened to all those wide receivers they signed to support him.
The whole team has been hobbled from the start, but Lamar still has his flashes of brilliance, and the AFC North is still wide open.
Tennessee has had another disappointing start under Ryan Tannehill, and his woeful offensive line.
When talks of ‘fire sale’ hit teams like the Vikings, the Titans are another who could be ripped apart for parts to fuel another teams thunder.
If the Titans don’t start slinging some wins together, they could soon get ‘Minshewed’ by the Colts.
London has been giving us some low scores again this year, as well as some new complaints about the turf and the ‘concrete’ feel of the pitch.
Ryan likes the Titans and the coating differential of Mike Vrabel to get the win in this contest that will hit the over. He predicts a back and forth of points, with the Titans topping the Ravens and winning the game.
Wade thinks that the Ravens who landed earlier this week, and are pissed off after last week, will topple the Titans and cover the game. Tennessee still has to fix their O line, and that’s where the Ravens will thrive in this low scoring game.
Ryan-Titans 23 Ravens 21
Wade-Ravens 22 Titans 13 
That’s it for the Ravens Titans London edition, make sure you like and follow our Facebook Page.

Tottenham Game Spots

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We’ve got another 2 London NFL games coming up, so we thought we would offer you up some Tottenham Game Spots for before and after the game.

Many London stadium going folk know that the newbie Tottenham Stadium is a little rough around the edges neighbourhood-wise, but like the once-ominous Wembley Stadium, the hood is on the rise.

Still, it’s widely accepted that Wembley overs a better experience OUTSIDE the stadium, while Tottenham Hotspur Stadium offers a better time INSIDE the gates.
Tottenham has spent a lot of money and thought on the fan drinking and eating options, so if you’ve never been inside before, you should be impressed.

A few early game day info:

  • Rail and tube strikes will persist throughout the week-Wednesday and Friday suck
  • Weather forecast is 25c (80f) and cloudy-perfect October conditions
  • Rugby World Cup Weekend-England, Ireland Scotland play Saturday-few games Sunday
  • Tottenham Stadium is congested to leave-consider a few local drinks before heading out

Tottenham Bars

Many of the bars around Tottenham are ‘blue and white’ faithful, meaning they are traditional Spurs drinking establishments.
This won’t matter to NFL fans unless you steam in covered in full Arsenal gear and acting like a Gooner.

BeaverTown-Corner Pin

If you’re looking to quaff fancy beers with whiffs of bergamot, BeaverTown is the £7 pint for you.

Located right across from the stadium, this ‘craft’ (Heineken) brew pub is a convenient place to try out some of Beavertown’s more unique samplings.

It’s easy to find, and has a lovely little garden, but gets as heaving as Tik Tok eating contest after an hour.
Plan to get there early.

https://beavertownbrewery.co.uk/pages/corner-pin

The BeeHive

This place is also buzzing with activity on game day, thanks to a spacious beer garden and independent pub feel.

Tucked away, yet still close to the stadium. The Beehive is a traditional sports pub, which means fans can scoot there after the game to get their fix of NFL and Redzone.

It always helps to book ahead if you’re going to bring a big group there.

https://beehiven17.com/

Antwerp Arms

A recently renovated community pub, The Antwerp Arms is bustling on gameday, as they have not only a solid menu, but sports on TV.

Those NFL fans looking for a Real Ale pub will be pleasantly pleased with the selection on offer tap wise, and the large patio is a great place to unwind on what looks to be a pretty sweet day.

Booking ahead is wise as this place gets very busy.

https://www.antwerparms.co.uk/

Elbow Room

Across the street from the Antwerp Arms is the Craft Union pub Elbow Room.

The pub has a great selection of beers, as well as TV to catch the sport on. It isn’t a pub that has food, but many of these places will allow you to bring in something from the kebab shop, provided you are respectful.

Elbow Room is open until 11pm, which gives you plenty of time to get sauced before you ride the rails home.

https://www.craftunionpubs.com/elbow-room-tottenham

Ferry Boat Inn

Further afield than the previous pubs but worth the view is the Ferry Boat Inn located on Lockwood Reservoir in Tottenham.

With a massive patio overlooking some water, the Ferry Boat Inn doesn’t feel like you’re in London at all.
50 tables plus, a jovial atmosphere, while curious mutts approach you at this dog friendly pub.

While the Ferry Boat Inn doesn’t have TVs to whet your NFL whistle, it is a great place to get away and chill before or after the mayhem of the stadium.

https://www.pubanddining.co.uk/ferry-boat-tottenham

Hackney Brewery

Across the water, but still a nice stroll away is the massive Hackney Brewery Taproom.

Filled with glorious taps of beer, plenty of outdoor seating, and even it’s own hotdog stand, the Hackney Brewery is an independent spot that the locals love.

If you have a big group, this is an amazing place to meet before the game to sneak in a few lovely, and affordable pints.

Sadly this place won’t be showing any of the NFL games, but it’s open until 11, and fans can soak up the afternoon sun on the patio while easily making their way to Northumberland Park station which is less than 10 minutes away.

Heck, you could even rent some of those electric bikes near the station and make it an even easier journey.

https://www.hackneybrewery.com/

Other Areas

The good thing about Tottenham, is that it is close to loads of other cool areas that you might want to try as party places before or after the game.
Here are some other local Tottenham Game Spots.

Wood Green

It’s not as stabby as it once was, which is a good thing for Wood Green. It’s also walkable to the stadium, giving a nice 20-30 minute journey through some side streets that also have their own pubs.

Wood Green is easily accessible via transit, and has a McDonald’s, Taco Bell, and some of the finest Turkish food your drunken belly could easily slop up.

Finsbury Park

Down the road from the stadium is the even more thriving area of Finsbury Park, which has seen an influx of students to make the place cool again.

There are plenty of late night haunts to pull you in, from sports bars, to pubs and even Rowan’s bowling lanes which are an iconic part of the area, and also open late.

Highbury and Islington

Hip with the kids, but getting sketchier since covid is the main high street action of H&I.

If you’re looking to amble and find plenty of later Sunday options, this is a potential destination, as it has places like the American rock bar Slim Jim’s open until the wee hours.

Old Street

Near the even hipper area of Shoreditch is the roundabout Old Street, which has some nifty little joints to check out.

RoadTrip is open very late on a Sunday, and even shows plenty of NFL games on their indoor and outdoor TVs. Sports Bar & Grill Old Street is also quite big, and suitable for those who want NFL galore.

Hope that this helps you on your trip to Tottenham Stadium for the next two games.

Don’t forget, you can also get a FREE beer by signing up to the series of Thames Cruises hosted by Tailgreeter.
Here is the next one.

Tailgreeter Thames Cruise-Bills vs Jaguars

https://tailgreeter.com/tailgate-the-thames-buffalo-bills-vs-jacksonville-jaguars-in-london