Title: The French Connection: Two French Players Making Waves in the NFL’s International Program
The National Football League (NFL) has long been a melting pot of talent from across the globe, and the league’s International Player Pathway Program (IPPP) has played a significant role in this diversity. The program, launched in 2017, aims to provide elite international athletes with the opportunity to compete at the NFL level, improve their skills, and potentially earn a spot on an NFL roster. Among the international talents that have emerged through this program are two French players, Anthony Mahoungou and Moubarak Djeri, who have been making waves in the NFL.
Anthony Mahoungou: From Paris to Philadelphia
Anthony Mahoungou, a wide receiver from Paris, France, is one of the promising talents to emerge from the IPPP. Mahoungou’s journey to the NFL is a testament to his determination and love for the game. He began his football career in France with the La Courneuve Flash before moving to the United States to play college football at Purdue University.
In 2018, Mahoungou was selected for the IPPP and assigned to the Philadelphia Eagles during their offseason training. Standing at 6’3″ and weighing 210 pounds, Mahoungou’s size and athleticism make him a formidable presence on the field. While he did not make the final roster, his participation in the program marked a significant step for French players in the NFL.
Moubarak Djeri: A Dream Come True
Moubarak Djeri’s journey to the NFL is nothing short of inspiring. Born in Togo, Djeri moved to Germany at a young age and fell in love with American football after watching it on television. He started playing for the Cologne Crocodiles in the German Football League, where his impressive performances caught the attention of NFL scouts.
In 2018, Djeri was signed by the Arizona Cardinals after participating in the IPPP. Although he was eventually released by the Cardinals, his journey from Togo to Germany and finally to the NFL is a testament to the opportunities provided by the IPPP and the global appeal of American football.
The Impact of the International Player Pathway Program
The inclusion of Mahoungou and Djeri in the NFL’s International Player Pathway Program highlights the league’s commitment to promoting diversity and expanding its global reach. The program not only provides international athletes with an opportunity to compete at the highest level but also helps to grow the sport of American football worldwide.
The success of Mahoungou and Djeri serves as an inspiration for other international players aspiring to make it to the NFL. Their journey underscores the fact that talent and passion for the game can come from anywhere, even places where American football is not traditionally popular.
While they may not have secured permanent spots on an NFL roster yet, both Mahoungou and Djeri have left their mark on the league and continue to inspire other French and international players. Their participation in the NFL’s International Player Pathway Program is a testament to their talent, determination, and the growing global appeal of American football.