NFL in London

National Football League in London

NFLUK

History of the Bears

by

With the Chicago Bears due to play in London again in 2024, we thought it apt to take a look at the history of this iconic team, famed for their incredible D, and stellar 1985 Super Bowl team.
So how much do you know about the Chicago Bears? Let’s take a look at the History of the Chicago Bears.

Nestled amidst the vibrant cityscape of Chicago, the Chicago Bears stand tall as one of the most iconic franchises in the National Football League (NFL). Renowned for their rich legacy, the Bears have etched their name in the annals of football history, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. Embark on a journey through time as we unravel the captivating tale of the Chicago Bears, tracing their origins, navigating through challenges, and witnessing their remarkable international growth.

Formation and Early Years

The inception of the Chicago Bears dates back to 1919 when legendary player, coach, and owner George Halas, along with Dutch Sternaman, established the Decatur Staleys. Originally based in Decatur, Illinois, the team swiftly transitioned to Chicago the following year, where they were rebranded as the Chicago Bears. Thus, began a saga of triumphs and tribulations that would define the franchise for decades to come.

Challenges and Triumphs

The journey of the Chicago Bears has been rife with challenges, yet marked by resilience and determination. Throughout the years, the team has weathered various storms, including roster shake-ups, financial constraints, and intense competition. However, amidst adversity, the Bears have consistently risen to the occasion, showcasing grit and fortitude on the gridiron. From their early dominance in the 1930s, which saw them clinch multiple NFL championships, to the modern era marked by iconic players like Walter Payton, Dick Butkus, and Mike Ditka, the Bears have carved a legacy of excellence.

Helping the Pack

During the tumultuous years of the Great Depression, the NFL faced unprecedented challenges that threatened its very existence. In a remarkable display of solidarity and sportsmanship, the Chicago Bears played a pivotal role in preserving the league during these dire times. In 1923, when the Green Bay Packers faced financial turmoil, it was the generosity of the Bears’ owner, George Halas, that provided a lifeline to their struggling rivals. Halas, recognizing the importance of maintaining a competitive and sustainable league, selflessly bailed out the Packers, ensuring their continued participation in the NFL. This act of camaraderie not only exemplified the spirit of sportsmanship but also underscored the Bears’ commitment to upholding the integrity and longevity of professional football. In doing so, the Bears helped foster a sense of unity among teams and laid the foundation for the league’s enduring success.

International Growth

While the Chicago Bears’ roots may lie in the heart of the Windy City, their influence transcends geographical boundaries, extending far beyond American shores. With the advent of globalization and the burgeoning popularity of American football worldwide, the Bears have embraced opportunities for international expansion. Through initiatives such as the NFL International Series and strategic partnerships with global brands, the Bears have cultivated a diverse and expansive fan base spanning continents. From hosting international games to engaging with fans through digital platforms, the Bears have emerged as a global ambassador for the sport, fostering a sense of camaraderie and unity among fans worldwide.

Legacy and Impact

As custodians of a storied legacy, the Chicago Bears hold a special place in the hearts of football enthusiasts around the globe. Beyond their on-field prowess, the Bears have become synonymous with tradition, heritage, and community engagement. From iconic landmarks like Soldier Field to revered traditions such as the “Monsters of the Midway,” the Bears embody the essence of football culture, weaving a tapestry of memories that resonate with fans across generations. Moreover, through their philanthropic endeavors and commitment to social responsibility, the Bears continue to make a positive impact on society, empowering communities and fostering inclusivity.

With the Bears due to play once again in London in 2024, UK fans will get the chance to see a new and improved squad, powered by Caleb and and healthy slew of new talent

In the ever-evolving landscape of professional sports, the Chicago Bears stand as a testament to the enduring spirit of athleticism, perseverance, and passion. From humble beginnings to global prominence, the Bears’ journey epitomizes the essence of the American dream, inspiring millions worldwide. As they continue to forge ahead into uncharted territories, the Chicago Bears remain steadfast in their pursuit of excellence, leaving an indelible legacy for generations to come.

Tom Brady Roast Review

by

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.

 

 

 

History of London Games

by

The NFL has had a powerful impact on London, so much so that we wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for their commitment to establishing it here. 

So let’s take a look at the History of the London Games to give us a little perspective on how indelible the league has been in setting up shop in London, allowing it to pivot internationally to great success. 

And we’re very happy that they did!

In October 2007, Wembley Stadium witnessed history as it hosted the inaugural NFL game in London. The matchup between the Miami Dolphins and the New York Giants marked the beginning of a new era for American football fans in the UK and Europe. With over 81,000 spectators filling the iconic venue, the atmosphere was electric as fans eagerly embraced the opportunity to experience the excitement of NFL football on British soil.

Evolution of the International Series

What started as an experimental venture to gauge international interest in American football has since evolved into an annual tradition cherished by fans across the globe. Over the years, the NFL International Series has grown in scope and significance, with multiple games now held at various venues across London. From Wembley Stadium to Twickenham Stadium and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, each venue has played host to thrilling matchups and unforgettable moments.

Now look at the NFL, it’s everywhere on TV and streaming shows. The sheer power of the league and its commitment to London is a testament to the power of the game, and the NFL. 

Camaraderie Among Fans

One of the most remarkable aspects of the NFL’s presence in London is the sense of camaraderie and community it fosters among fans. Regardless of team allegiance, supporters from all walks of life come together to celebrate their shared love of the game. Tailgate parties, fan rallies, and meet-and-greets with NFL legends have become integral parts of the London game-day experience, creating a vibrant atmosphere that transcends borders and cultures.

Look at any London NFL game and you’ll see a swath of various jerseys from current to fantasy. The Brits love fancy dress, so don’t expect them to come dressed in battle uniform, it’s supposed to be about personality. 

Thrilling Comebacks and Overtime Dramas

On the field, NFL games played in London have produced no shortage of memorable moments and dramatic finishes. From thrilling come-from-behind victories to nail-biting overtime showdowns, each game has provided fans with heart-stopping excitement and edge-of-your-seat action. Whether it’s a game-winning touchdown catch in the final seconds or a game-saving interception in overtime, every play leaves an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of fans.

Every year the games get better, and that’s a good thing. 

NFL’s Impact on UK and European Culture

Beyond the gridiron, the NFL International Series has had a profound impact on UK and European culture. Through initiatives such as NFL UK Academy and NFL Flag Football, the league has invested in grassroots development programs aimed at nurturing the next generation of talent. By promoting inclusivity and diversity, the NFL has not only expanded the reach of American football but also enriched the sporting landscape in the UK and Europe.

You can see it on the high streets and shops, as NFL merch is growing in street popularity with the kids. The NFL is cool yo!

The Bright Future of the NFL in London

As the NFL International Series continues to evolve and grow, the future looks brighter than ever for American football in London and beyond. With the recent addition of regular-season games in other European cities, such as Mexico City and Munich, the league’s global footprint continues to expand. With each passing year, the spirit of the game continues to unite fans across continents, celebrating the shared joy of gridiron glory.

And a a week 1 game in Brazil between the Eagles and Packers? C’mon!

We here at NFL in London sure look forward to putting on more fantastic events for the fans. 

Highest Scoring London Games

The London games have been notoriously low scoring affairs thanks to numerous reasons, but that doesn’t mean that the capital hasn’t seen its share of exciting matches.

Here are some of the highest scoring NFL games that London has hosted over the past 17 years, and there have been a lot of them.

Please let us know what your favourite London games have been, and be sure to add photos!

Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Indianapolis Colts
October 2, 2016

Jaguars 30, Colts 27

In a thrilling matchup, the Jaguars and Colts traded blows throughout the game. Jaguars quarterback Blake Bortles threw for over 300 yards and a touchdown, while running back T.J. Yeldon rushed for a score. The Colts, led by quarterback Andrew Luck, mounted a late comeback attempt, but a decisive interception by Jaguars’ safety Clayton Geathers sealed the victory for Jacksonville in front of a raucous London crowd.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Carolina Panthers
October 13, 2019

Panthers 37, Buccaneers 26

The Buccaneers and Panthers engaged in a high-scoring shootout, with both offenses lighting up the scoreboard. Panthers quarterback Kyle Allen threw for over 200 yards and two touchdowns, while running back Christian McCaffrey dominated with over 150 yards from scrimmage and two touchdowns. Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston countered with over 400 passing yards and two touchdowns, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Panthers’ offensive onslaught.

Los Angeles Chargers vs. Tennessee Titans
October 21, 2018

Chargers 20, Titans 19

In a closely contested battle, the Chargers and Titans exchanged field goals and touchdowns throughout the game. Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota orchestrated a late scoring drive to put Tennessee ahead, but a missed two-point conversion sealed their fate. Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers led a game-winning drive, culminating in a touchdown pass to wide receiver Mike Williams. The Chargers’ defense held firm in the final moments to secure the narrow victory.

Detroit Lions vs. Atlanta Falcons
October 26, 2014

Lions 22, Falcons 21

The Lions staged a remarkable fourth-quarter comeback to defeat the Falcons in a thrilling contest. Trailing by 21 points at halftime, Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford rallied his team with over 300 passing yards and two touchdowns. The game-winning score came on a late touchdown pass from Stafford to wide receiver Golden Tate, capping off a dramatic comeback victory for Detroit in front of an enthusiastic London crowd.

Miami Dolphins vs. New York Jets
October 4, 2015

Dolphins 27, Jets 14

The Dolphins controlled the game from start to finish, dominating the Jets on both sides of the ball. Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill threw for over 200 yards and two touchdowns, while the defense stifled the Jets’ offense, forcing multiple turnovers. Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick struggled to find rhythm against Miami’s defense, managing only one touchdown pass in a disappointing performance for New York.

These game highlights showcase the excitement and drama of the highest-scoring NFL games played in London, underscoring the growing popularity of American football in the UK and Europe. It’s only getting bigger and better thanks to the bright, big minds at the NFLUK.

Hopefully with more NFL games hitting Europe in upcoming years, we’ll see some big scores to reward the fans who love the NFL so much. 

Top Offseason Signings

by

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.

Super Bowl 58 Picks

by

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!