NFL in London

National Football League in London

NFL Brazil 2024

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. 

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? 

Super Bowl 58 Picks

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It’s finally the last game of the season, the big one, as we bring you our Super Bowl 58 Picks.

The NFL in London team has been making their lists, checking them twice, and then factoring in Mahomes again to make the predictions for Super Bowl Sunday.

If you want to listen to the whole podcast where Ryan and Wade chat it all out, just click here and you’re on your way to a super fun time.

Super Bowl Sunday

Have you made your plans for Super Bowl Sunday yet? If you’re having a party at home, just make sure to tag us with #nflinlondon so we can see what kind of set up you’re running!
Getting some of the fun out of the way….let’s get into the big game.

-2 San Francisco 49ers vs Kansas City Chiefs  +47.5

It’s a repeat of 4 years ago, when we hadn’t heard of Covid yet, but we had heard of Jackson Mahomes, and that was considered much worse.
As we remember from that game, the 49ers were up with only 7 minutes left to go, when some questionable calls, and Mahomes momentum were able to propel the Chiefs to victory.
So can that happen again?
The 49ers could be considered lucky to have made it this far, despite being the number 1 seed.
With marginal victories over the Packers, and Lions, the Niners have had to ‘dig deep’ to rally back, something that was a bit foreign to them.
Let’s also not forget that beating that they took at the hands of the Ravens at the end of the season that had many questioning their ability to put away good times.
Brock Purdy can get flustered, and this much hyped D has been gashed in the past few games by coaches who were able to find all the little holes.
San Fran are 2 point favourites, which also seems a bit of a surprise given the way that the Chiefs have played since December.
Patrick Mahomes has that special touch, whereas Jackson Mahomes, has that no so special touch.
Watching Patrick Mahomes in the postseason brings memories of Tom Brady, a guy who puts it all together when it matters most, to make those miraculous plays.
So how can the 49ers beat Mahomes when he plays like this?
Seriously.
Not only do we know that PM can rally his team with time to spare, but he can also rely on his solid defence to back them up and keep them in the game.
So why has Vegas given the 49ers the 2 points in a game where all signs are pointing to a Chiefs win?

Ryan Takes Chiefs

Despite the Chiefs taking out his Buffalo Bills once again, Ryan is backing the Chiefs to win their second ring in a row. He thinks that it will be a low-scoring, and plodding game, where the Chiefs D is able to choke out Brock Purdy for the win.

Wade Tomahawk Chops

Mmmm…tomahawk chops…the main thing that Wade thinks will be cooking on Sunday will be the Chiefs D, as Spagnoulo will have lots of tricks up his sleeves for Purdy and CM. He thinks that the Chiefs will get an early lead, the Niners will chip, but it should be another W for Kansas City.
Wade also thinks that Kelce will win the MVP after scoring 2 touchdowns.
Ryan-Chiefs 24-49ers 21
Wade-Chiefs 23-49ers 20
That’s it for our Super Bowl 58 picks, hope that you all have a fantastic Super Bowl Sunday!
Be dafe, and have fun!

Top International NFL Players

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The NFL might be an American sport, but that doesn’t mean that plenty of international players have also tried their hand at the game. With the rise of exceptional talents from around the world, let’s take a look at some of the stand-out international players . These non-US players have showcased their skills, diversity, and resilience, leaving an enduring mark on the league.

So let’s take a look at some of the top international players who have suited up for an NFL team.

Top International NFL Players

1. Sebastian Janikowski (Poland)

Sebastian Janikowski, hailing from Poland, established himself as one of the most prominent international players in NFL history. Known for his powerful leg and record-breaking field goals, Janikowski spent nearly two decades with the Oakland Raiders, setting numerous franchise records.

2. Osi Umenyiora (United Kingdom)

A defensive force from the United Kingdom, Osi Umenyiora made a significant impact as a fearsome pass rusher for the New York Giants. His exceptional speed and technique led to multiple Pro Bowl appearances and played a pivotal role in the Giants’ Super Bowl victories.

3. Morten Andersen (Denmark)

Denmark’s Morten Andersen stands as a pioneer in NFL kicking history. His remarkable longevity and consistent accuracy made him the all-time leading scorer at the time of his retirement, showcasing unparalleled kicking skills over a career that spanned multiple teams. Morten was also the highest-scoring NFL player for ages, until his title was taken from him. 

4. Alejandro Villanueva (Spain)

Alejandro Villanueva, born in Spain and a former Army Ranger, made a significant impact as an offensive lineman for the Pittsburgh Steelers. His versatility, resilience, and skill on the field earned him widespread acclaim and respect.

5. Hines Ward (South Korea)

Born in South Korea, Hines Ward etched his name as one of the most versatile and tenacious wide receivers in NFL history. His physicality, exceptional route-running, and blocking prowess played a pivotal role in the Pittsburgh Steelers’ success, earning him Super Bowl MVP honors.

6. Christian Okoye (Nigeria)

Hailing from Nigeria, Christian Okoye, known as the “Nigerian Nightmare,” left a lasting impact as a dominant running back for the Kansas City Chiefs. His blend of speed and power made him a force to be reckoned with on the field.

7. Efe Obada (Nigeria/United Kingdom)

Efe Obada, born in Nigeria and raised in the United Kingdom, emerged as a notable defensive end for the Carolina Panthers. His journey from homelessness to the NFL earned him recognition, showcasing his resilience and potential on the field.

8. Tamba Hali (Liberia)

Tamba Hali, born in Liberia, showcased his prowess as a formidable pass rusher during his tenure with the Kansas City Chiefs. His relentless style of play and impact on the defensive front solidified his place among elite NFL defenders.

9. Ziggy Ansah (Ghana)

Ziggy Ansah, born in Ghana, made his mark as a dynamic defensive end in the NFL. His athleticism and ability to disrupt offenses earned him recognition during his tenure with the Detroit Lions and other teams.

10. Jermaine Eluemunor (United Kingdom/Nigeria)

Jermaine Eluemunor, born in the United Kingdom to Nigerian parents, has showcased his versatility as an offensive lineman, contributing to multiple NFL teams with his skill and adaptability.

These remarkable non-US NFL players have not only elevated the game with their diverse backgrounds but have also exemplified the global appeal and inclusivity of American football. Their contributions have resonated with fans worldwide, transcending borders and inspiring a new generation of aspiring athletes across the globe.

Yes, there are quite a few players that have been omitted from the list, and quite a few more that we will be keeping an eye on.
As the NFL continues to grow internationally, we will see plenty more players from around the world, and yes, we will include Canada next time too.

Which of the top International NFL players should also be on this list?