NFL in London

National Football League in London

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History of Wembley and the NFL

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Wembley Stadium, often hailed as the “Home of Football,” has a storied history that intertwines with the evolution of sports and entertainment in the UK. From its original incarnation in 1923 to its modern-day architectural marvel, Wembley has been a beacon for global sporting events, including our beloved NFL games.
So ahead of the next Jacksonville game in 2025, let’s take a look at the History of Wembley and the NFL.

The Birth of a Legend: 1923

The original Wembley Stadium, known as the Empire Stadium, opened its doors in 1923. Its inaugural event, the FA Cup Final between Bolton Wanderers and West Ham United, was so overcrowded that it’s famously dubbed the “White Horse Final” due to a lone policeman on a white horse restoring order. This iconic venue quickly became synonymous with major football matches, concerts, and events that defined generations.

A Modern Revival: 2007

After serving the public for nearly 80 years, the original structure was demolished to make way for a new, state-of-the-art stadium. The new Wembley Stadium, unveiled in 2007, boasts a seating capacity of 90,000 and features the iconic 133-meter-high arch, visible from various points in London. This architectural wonder isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s a testament to modern engineering and design.

American Football Touchdown: The NFL’s Foray into Wembley

While Wembley is traditionally associated with “soccer” (as we NFL aficionados might differentiate), its relationship with American football dates back several decades. The first official American football game at Wembley was in 1952, featuring U.S. Air Force teams. Fast forward to 1983, and Wembley hosted its first NFL game when the Minnesota Vikings faced the St. Louis Cardinals in a preseason matchup. This game was part of the NFL’s efforts to globalise the sport and tap into the UK’s burgeoning interest.

The American Bowl Series: 1986-1993

The NFL’s commitment to international expansion led to the American Bowl series, a collection of preseason games held outside the United States. Wembley Stadium was a prominent venue during this period, hosting several memorable matchups. These games not only showcased NFL talent but also solidified London’s status as a key location for American football.

NFL International Series: A New Era

The real game-changer came in 2007 with the introduction of the NFL International Series, featuring regular-season games held at Wembley. The inaugural game saw the New York Giants edge out the Miami Dolphins 13-10 in a rain-soaked affair. This wasn’t just a win for the Giants but a monumental victory for NFL fans in the UK, proving that there was a substantial appetite for American football across the pond.

The Jacksonville Jaguars: London’s Team

Enter the Jacksonville Jaguars, a franchise that has embraced London as its second home. Starting in 2013, the Jaguars committed to playing one home game per season at Wembley, a relationship that has flourished over the years. Their presence has not only boosted the NFL’s popularity in the UK but has also fostered a loyal fan base in London. The Jaguars’ games at Wembley have become annual spectacles, blending the flair of American football with the rich traditions of British sporting culture.

2024: A Record-Breaking Showdown

The 2024 season marked a significant milestone in this transatlantic partnership. On October 20, 2024, the Jaguars faced off against the New England Patriots at Wembley Stadium. The game attracted a record crowd of 86,651 fans, the largest attendance for an NFL game in the UK to date. The Jaguars delivered an electrifying performance, securing a 32-16 victory. Highlights included Parker Washington’s stunning 96-yard punt return touchdown, the longest in NFL London history.

Looking Ahead: The 2025 Season

The NFL’s commitment to London shows no signs of waning. The 2025 season is set to feature multiple games in the UK, with the Jacksonville Jaguars, New York Jets, and Cleveland Browns designated as the home teams for these international fixtures. The Jaguars will continue their tradition of playing at Wembley Stadium, further cementing their bond with the UK fan base.

Wembley Stadium’s Hidden Gem

While many are familiar with Wembley’s grandeur, few know about its hidden feature—a retractable running track beneath the pitch. Intended for athletic events, this feature has never been used since the stadium’s reopening in 2007. The logistics and costs associated with converting the stadium for track and field events have rendered this feature dormant, a testament to the stadium’s multifaceted design that remains largely untapped.

A Cultural Exchange: NFL Meets British Fandom

The NFL games at Wembley have become more than just sporting events; they’re cultural exchanges. British fans have embraced American traditions, from tailgating to the flamboyant halftime shows. Conversely, American teams and fans have indulged in British customs, enjoying pints at local pubs and exploring London’s historic landmarks. This fusion has created a unique atmosphere that celebrates the best of both worlds.

A Legacy in the Making

Wembley Stadium’s journey from its 1923 origins to its current status as a global sports hub mirrors the NFL’s own evolution and international ambitions. The stadium has not only witnessed historic moments in traditional football but has also become a pivotal venue for American football. As the NFL continues to expand its global footprint, Wembley stands as a symbol of this cross-cultural collaboration, with the Jacksonville Jaguars leading the charge. The future promises even more thrilling matchups and record-breaking crowds, solidifying Wembley Stadium’s place in NFL history.

10 NFL Players with the Funniest Names

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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? 

Super Bowl 59 Recap: Eagles Soar, Chiefs Sputter

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It was an incredible Super Bowl 59 for the NFC and Eagles fans, as they thoroughly humbled Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs, and the coaching staff of KC.
It turns out that they can be beat in the post season, as Philly was all over them.
Let’s take a look at a recap of the big game.

Philadelphia’s Defensive Domination

The Philadelphia Eagles turned Super Bowl LIX into their own personal highlight reel, bulldozing the Kansas City Chiefs 40-22 and making Patrick Mahomes look, well, mortal. The Eagles’ defensive line showed up like they were double-parked outside the stadium, racking up six sacks and applying relentless pressure on Mahomes, who was running for his life all night.

Josh Sweat led the way with 2.5 sacks, while Milton Williams and Jordan Davis contributed to the Mahomes mayhem. By the time the first half ended, Mahomes had already thrown two interceptions—one of which rookie Cooper DeJean returned 38 yards for a touchdown. The Chiefs must have wondered if they’d walked into the wrong stadium because this was looking less like a championship game and more like an Eagles-sponsored stress test.

The Mahomes Meltdown

Mahomes has been known to perform miracles on the field, but this time, he needed divine intervention. The Chiefs’ quarterback had one of the worst playoff performances of his career, finishing 21-of-32 for 257 yards, three touchdowns (two coming in garbage time), and two momentum-killing interceptions. Kansas City fans were left wondering if they had been transported back to Super Bowl LV, when Mahomes was similarly tormented by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

To be fair, it wasn’t entirely his fault—his offensive line provided less protection than a broken umbrella, and his receivers seemed to be playing a game of “Hot Potato” with the football. Travis Kelce, normally Mahomes’ go-to target, was practically invisible in the first half, managing just one yard alongside rookie Xavier Worthy.

Hurts Silences the Doubters

Jalen Hurts, on the other hand, played like a man on a mission. The Eagles’ quarterback shrugged off any remaining doubts about his ability to win the big one, earning Super Bowl MVP honors with a near-flawless performance. He completed 17-of-22 passes for 221 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception, while also leading the team in rushing with 72 yards and a touchdown.

Hurts became just the second quarterback in history to throw for 200 yards and rush for 70 yards in a Super Bowl—joining himself from Super Bowl LVII. Maybe now people will stop questioning whether he belongs in the elite QB conversation.

The Chiefs’ Secondary: A Horror Show

Kansas City’s rush defense deserved a standing ovation, bottling up Saquon Barkley and holding him to just 57 yards on 25 carries (a brutal 2.3 yards per attempt). Unfortunately for them, the secondary was about as sturdy as wet cardboard. Jaylen Watson got cooked on a 46-yard touchdown from Hurts to DeVonta Smith, and the Chiefs gave up five pass plays of 20+ yards. If Kansas City is serious about contending again next year, their offseason shopping list should start with “new defensive backs.”

Questionable Officiating: A Super Bowl Tradition

What’s a Super Bowl without a little referee controversy? The game started with two questionable penalties—one against Eagles receiver A.J. Brown on a phantom offensive pass interference, and another unnecessary roughness flag against Chiefs corner Trent McDuffie. While the calls didn’t impact the outcome, they certainly didn’t help Kansas City’s already uphill battle.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next?

The Chiefs’ bid for a three-peat is officially dead, but Mahomes and Andy Reid will be back for another run next season—though Travis Kelce’s future remains uncertain. As for the Eagles, they’ll have to replace offensive coordinator Kellen Moore, who is reportedly heading to the Saints, but with a dominant defense and an elite quarterback, Philadelphia is set up for more success in the years to come.

Super Bowl 59 may not have given us a nail-biting finish, but it gave us plenty to talk about—mainly, how unstoppable the Eagles’ defense was and how much therapy Chiefs fans will need. Here’s to another wild NFL season ahead!

Divisional Halfway-NFC

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Welcome to November, as we begin the chilly part of the NFL season, and take a look at the Divisional Halfway-NFC, in a division that is really heating up.

With half of the season already done, teams should have a pretty good idea of what it takes to make that giant playoffs leap forward. Let’s break down each division and separate the wheat from the losers.

NFC EAST

What the Washington? Where did they come from? Dan Synder must be licking his wounds, or trading naked pictures of cheerleaders on the dark web, to see what the WFT has done in 2024. Jayden Daniels has made an immediate impact, even tossing a game winning Hail Mary to beat the Bears. With zero expectations going into the season, they sure like the hot hand in the East.

Philly might have something to say about that, after a slow start has suddenly invigorated their D, and put some punch back into Jalen’s legs. Saquon has been a beast for the Eagles, and they could look to ride him into a playoff berth.

Dallas is getting messy, and not in a good way. Jerry Jones has poor communication going on from the top down, as it’s not clear what them Boys are going to do. Dak is struggling with no O line, raging running backs, and only CeeDee in double coverage. Maybe they get dangerous after week 10, or just continue to implode.

New York got exposed on Hard Knocks, and it seems to have followed them like the stink of moth balls. Losing Saquon was a face slap, but maybe not as hard as how Daniel Jones has under performed this season. Is it the coaching, or does DJ lack the gusto to win? The Giants sure have.

NFC NORTH

The Motor City is the big cat in this division, as the Lions have continued to spank opponents in big fashion. Jared Goff has been solid, the running game has double punching power, and the receivers are top notch. Losing Hutchinson is a big blow for the D, but they seem to have recovered and look like the top picks in the NFC.

The Vikings are doing that totally Minnesota thing again. Starting great, and them flummoxing themselves to February with inconsistent play. After being exposed after running up 5 wins, they seem to be naked to their own advancement. Will they be able to rally, or will Darnold get the blame for a team a few weapons short.

Green Bay has had a surprising season of wins, when it looked like Love trouble after week 1. It all comes down to the coaching here, as Matt Lafleur has been clutch in reading teams, and calming his approach. Josh Jacobs has been a welcome addition as the Pack have made a bit of a run, but they always seem to shoot themselves in the foot when it comes to crush time.

Whoa those Bears! Caleb has been steady, but not as solid as the D has been at keeping Chicago in games. While there was a lot of expectations, Bears fans should be happy that they are at the beginning of a franchise whilst others falter. Eberflus should be relieved of play-calling, and stick to overall coaching, but the Bears might be able to sneak through with a cheeky wild card if they can make it through a tough last schedule.

NFC SOUTH

The dirty south runs through Atlanta, as Kirk Cousins has found his groove, and the Falcons have a running game that can do some damage. A slow start has led to the birds starting to flock together, although their D has shown they can take points hits. They are owning their division, which goes a long way to the playoffs.

Baker Mayfield tries so hard, but that hasn’t helped Tampa as they took a slew of injuries to thwart their fun run of W’s. It’s hard to see a way for the Bucs to continue, as Mayfield doesn’t have enough targets, or O line to stop the bleed. He might find a way to a wild card, but it’s doubtful.

Derek Carr and the Saints marched to 2 quick wins of 50 points, with Alvin Kamara trampling D’s, then the suck happened. Carr looks to return, but the Saints and Dennis Allen have shown that something isn’t right in New Orleans. Too inconsistent, too many injures, and not enough weapons. What will they trade away?

Oh Carolina, even Shaggy couldn’t write a song about your woes. Bring in Bryce, bring in Andy, what does it matter? The Panthers traded away the rest of their goods, so they’re trying to dress for the Oscars, with items from a charity shop. Only good thing about the Panthers is betting against them.

NFC WEST

The West use to be best, but it hasn’t looked that way to start the season, as this division is as wide open as the plains that separate them. The 49ers SHOULD be leading the way here, but big injuries, and close loses have fated them to a grind it out time. San Fran is a good team, they just haven’t shown it yet, and they better soon, or they could get usurped.

Matt Stafford and the Rams continue to find ways to win, because they were still recent Super Bowl champs. Coaching has been the big key in ’24, and Sean McVay has winning in his blood. Despite some early injuries, the Rams are starting to make a string of wins happen, and that’s dangerous for the NFC. Don’t be surprised if the Rams wild card it to the danger zone in 2025.

Seattle has been riding old man Geno hard over the past few seasons, with not a lot of support. The Seahawks have games where they look brilliant, and then play the Bills and looks totally outclassed. When it comes down to the tough games, the team crumbles under the pressure, and won’t see a lot of joy going forward.

Kyler Murray keeps trying, but it just isn’t enough for a Cardinals squad that can only play half a game. One minute he’s looking awesome, scrambling and hitting targets, and the other he looks lost in shuffle.
Arizona has never felt like they could put a full winning team together to win every game. Coming up short is their way, and they’ll do it again.

Who knows what the season will hold, but it looks like the Lions, Falcons, Redskins, and Rams will all be fighting it out in January.

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London BearDown and More!

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As Week 6 of the NFL season approaches, the Chicago Bears are taking centre stage with their upcoming October 13th international game in London. This marquee matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium is more than just another game—it’s part of a broader global push for the NFL and the city of Chicago. Alongside this international excitement, major storylines continue to unfold across the league, from quarterback controversies to injuries. 

So let’s dive into the most important news heading into Week 6, starting with the Bears’ big London arrival.

Beardown Tottenham

The Chicago Bears have landed in London already, bringing a wave of excitement ahead of their highly anticipated matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars on October 13. The Bears are no strangers to international play, but this trip marks a special opportunity for both the team and the city of Chicago to make a statement on the global stage.

Mayor Brandon Johnson is also in town, traveling with World Business Chicago, as part of a broader mission to position Chicago as a global hub for business and innovation. Johnson’s visit includes high-level meetings and key announcements, and a few fun trips to the pub (perhaps?).

While Chicago’s business community aims to strengthen ties with London, the Bears have their own agenda—bringing the energy of Soldier Field across the Atlantic. They’ve organised a series of fan events at the Greenwood Sports Pub, where London-based Bears fans can meet former players, grab autographs, and enjoy a slice of Chicago football culture. 

As mentioned in previous articles, the Greenwood isn’t the best sports bar for North American authenticity, as the McDonald’s in Victoria station was serving up better food than any of the events we ran there. 

Bring lots of money, as it is one of the priciest sports pubs in the city, even though it isn’t close to anything, 

These events, which run from October 9-13, include appearances from beloved Bears alumni like Charles “Peanut” Tillman and Anthony “Spice” Adams, alongside giveaways, trivia, and more.

For those attending the game, or simply fans looking to immerse themselves in the Chicago football atmosphere, the Bears’ week-long takeover in London culminates with a viewing party at the Greenwood on October 13. Even if fans can’t make it to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, they’ll be able to watch the game in true Bears fashion at the pub, decked out in team colors with face painters on-site to get everyone game-ready. FYI the pub closes at 11 on a Sunday, and will happily kick out fans looking to watch the 9pm games. 

The Bears have had a mixed history in London, winning against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Wembley in 2011 but falling to the Oakland Raiders in 2019. As they prepare to face the Jaguars in what promises to be a thrilling contest, the excitement in London is palpable. With events designed to engage local fans and promote Chicago on an international stage, this trip is a major moment for both the team and the city. All eyes will be on the Bears as they aim to capture a win and leave their mark on the international stage.

Russell Wilson’s Potential Return in Pittsburgh

In other news, the Pittsburgh Steelers face a looming decision regarding their quarterback situation. After back-to-back losses, and with Justin Fields’ struggles against the Cowboys, the door may be open for Russell Wilson’s return to the starting lineup. Head coach Mike Tomlin will address the situation during his weekly press conference, but speculation is growing that Wilson could get the nod as early as Week 6 against the Raiders.

Wilson, who has been recovering from an injury, is reportedly getting healthier and could offer the offensive spark the Steelers desperately need. Fields has shown flashes of brilliance, but the offence has stalled in recent weeks, and with prime-time games against the New York Jets and Giants on the horizon, the timing could be perfect for a change. Wilson’s experience and ability to read defences might be just what the Steelers need to get back on track.

Joe Flacco Continues to Impress in Indy

Meanwhile, in Indianapolis, veteran quarterback Joe Flacco is turning heads with his standout performances. The 39-year-old QB threw for 354 yards and three touchdowns in the Colts’ Week 5 game, stepping in seamlessly for the injured Anthony Richardson. Despite his age, Flacco has defied expectations, making five consecutive starts with over 300 yards and multiple TDs.

The Colts are in the thick of the playoff race, and Flacco’s resurgence is providing them with stability at the quarterback position. If he continues this level of play, Indianapolis could make a serious postseason push, thanks in no small part to the veteran’s leadership and sharp passing game.

Deshaun Rubs Himself Out

Deshaun Watson’s rough start to the 2024 season hit a new low in Week 5, as the Cleveland Browns were dominated 34-13 by the Washington Commanders. Watson’s performance was underwhelming once again, and he was outclassed by rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. Watson has yet to throw for more than 200 yards in a game this season, and he’s been sacked at least six times in three separate contests.

For a quarterback commanding a $230 million contract, these numbers are troubling. Watson’s inability to elevate the Browns’ offense is one of the most pressing issues for the team heading into Week 6. If he doesn’t turn things around soon, the Browns could be looking at another disappointing season.

Patriots Eye No. 1 Draft Pick Amid Freefall

It’s been a rough season for the New England Patriots, who have now dropped four straight games following their surprise Week 1 win. The losses have piled up, and the team’s poor performance has them on track for a top pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Head coach Jared Mayo will need to work some magic to salvage the season, but at this point, it’s looking like a rebuild might be the Patriots’ best option moving forward.

The Patriots’ offensive struggles have been particularly alarming, as they’ve failed to establish any consistent rhythm, and every QB is getting constant pressure up front. If their slide continues, don’t be surprised if the team starts making moves to position themselves for a high draft pick next year.

Kansas City Chiefs’ Rashee Rice Out for Season

The Kansas City Chiefs will be without one of their rising stars, as wide receiver Rashee Rice is set to miss the rest of the season due to a knee injury. Rice suffered the injury in Week 4 when quarterback Patrick Mahomes accidentally collided with him while trying to recover an interception. The Chiefs have confirmed that Rice will undergo surgery to repair his LCL, and there’s optimism that his ACL remains undamaged.

Rice’s absence will be a blow to the Chiefs’ and Mahomes, as he was becoming an integral part of Mahomes’ passing attack. However, with Mahomes at the helm, the Chiefs are well-positioned to weather the storm, though they’ll need other receivers to step up as the season progresses. Looking at you Davante! 

Streaming Services See NFL Boost

Finally, a new study from Ampere Analysis highlights the incredible power the NFL has over streaming services. During the NFL season, platforms like YouTube TV and Fubo see a massive 77% increase in sign-ups, driven by the league’s unparalleled popularity. The Super Bowl remains the biggest subscription driver, with over 410,000 sign-ups recorded in a single day during last year’s championship.

As more games move to streaming exclusives, the relationship between the NFL and these services will continue to grow. It’s clear that the NFL remains a major force not just in sports but in the broader entertainment landscape, as fans flock to streaming platforms to catch the action every week.

With the Chicago Bears making headlines in London and plenty of drama across the league, Week 6 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting of the 2024 NFL season. Watch this space for more Bears and Jags news ahead of Sunday.