Philadelphia Eagles’ Super Bowl champ Moro Ojomo among top 7 African NFL moments

The 2024-25 NFL season showcased several remarkable performances by players of African descent. Here are seven standout moments:

1. Moro Ojomo’s First Career Sack and Super Bowl Victory

   Nigerian-American defensive tackle Moro Ojomo achieved his first official NFL sack during the divisional round against the Los Angeles Rams, bringing down quarterback Matthew Stafford in snowy conditions. This pivotal play contributed to the Philadelphia Eagles’ 28-22 victory. Ojomo’s season culminated in a Super Bowl win over the Kansas City Chiefs, marking a double milestone in his rookie year. citeturn0search0

2. Kene Nwangwu’s 99-Yard Kick Return Touchdown

   In Week 13, first-generation Nigerian-American Kene Nwangwu made a memorable NFL debut for the New York Jets. Elevated from the practice squad, Nwangwu returned a kickoff 99 yards for a touchdown against the Seattle Seahawks, amassing 157 return yards and forcing a fumble in the game. citeturn0search0

3. Nick Westbrook-Ikhine’s 98-Yard Touchdown Reception

   Tennessee Titans wide receiver Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, of Nigerian descent, delivered the longest touchdown of the NFL season in Week 11. He connected with quarterback Will Levis for a 98-yard score against the Minnesota Vikings, matching the franchise’s record for the longest touchdown pass set in 1962. citeturn0search0

4. Dare Ogunbowale’s Game-Winning Touchdown

   Born to Nigerian parents, Houston Texans running back Dare Ogunbowale secured a 24-20 victory over his former team, the Jacksonville Jaguars, in Week 4. With 18 seconds remaining, Ogunbowale caught a decisive pass from quarterback C.J. Stroud, sealing the win. His sister, WNBA star Arike Ogunbowale, was present to celebrate the moment. citeturn0search0

5. Chigoziem Okonkwo’s 70-Yard Touchdown Reception

   In Week 12, tight end Chigoziem Okonkwo, hailing from a Nigerian family, made a significant impact for the Tennessee Titans. He recorded a 70-yard touchdown reception against the Houston Texans, turning a short pass into a game-changing score by evading defenders and sprinting to the end zone. citeturn0search0

6. Justin Madubuike’s Dominant Defensive Performance

   Baltimore Ravens defensive tackle Justin Madubuike, of Nigerian descent, delivered a standout performance in a 35-34 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. He recorded five tackles, three sacks, a forced fumble, and ten quarterback pressures, significantly disrupting the Bengals’ offense and contributing to the Ravens’ comeback win. citeturn0search0

7. Matt Judon’s Interception Return for a Touchdown

   Atlanta Falcons linebacker Matt Judon, with family ties to Burundi, achieved his first career touchdown in Week 16. He intercepted a pass from New York Giants quarterback Drew Lock and returned it 27 yards for a touchdown. Judon also recorded a sack in the Falcons’ 34-7 victory, providing a memorable highlight for the team’s season. citeturn0search0

These moments underscore the significant contributions of African players to the NFL’s dynamic and diverse landscape.