31 / October

Australia’s legacy in the NFL through the years

Sport

Explore the journey and influence of Australians in the NFL, from pioneers to modern stars.

Australia's connection to the NFL has evolved into a story of skill, grit, and determination. From early trailblazers to current stars, Australians in the NFL have shown the world how their unique talents, honed in Aussie sports, can thrive in America’s most popular league. With our NXP x NFL Collection now live, let’s explore how Aussies have left their mark on the NFL, inspiring future generations and increasing the game’s popularity back home.

Historical Australians in the NFL

Australians began making an impact in the NFL long before many realised, with pioneering players paving the way for future generations. These early stars didn’t just bring their talent—they brought a new style of play that would influence the game for years to come.

Colin Scotts

Colin Scotts made history as the first Australian to be drafted into the NFL, joining the St. Louis Cardinals in 1987. Transitioning from rugby to American football, Scotts’ powerful presence on the defensive line set the tone for future Australians in the NFL. While his NFL career was brief, his legacy remains important as one of the first Aussies to break into the league.

Darren Bennett

Aussie Rules football star Darren Bennett transformed his career by joining the NFL in the 1990s as a punter for the San Diego Chargers.
Bennett’s unique kicking style, developed during his time in AFL, changed the way punting was approached in the NFL. He earned two Pro Bowl selections and established himself as one of the most successful Australians playing in the NFL. His influence is still felt today, as many Australian punters have followed in his footsteps.

The Modern Era of Australians in the NFL

In recent years, the number of Australians playing in the NFL has grown, with many excelling at the punter position, but others have taken on different roles as well. The modern wave of Aussie talent continues to impress on the biggest stage.

Jordan Mailata

Jordan Mailata is one of the most remarkable stories in the NFL today. A former rugby league player, Mailata was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in 2018.

Standing at 6'8" and weighing over 160 kg, Mailata has developed into a key player for the Eagles as an offensive tackle.

His rise from rugby to the NFL has been nothing short of extraordinary and adds to the legacy of Australians in the NFL.

Michael Dickson

Michael Dickson is another modern Australian NFL player making waves. A punter for the Seattle Seahawks, Dickson was drafted in 2018 and quickly became known for his impressive kicking abilities.

His talent earned him a Pro Bowl selection in his rookie season, proving that Australians continue to be a force to be reckoned with in the NFL.

The Significance of Representation

The presence of Australians in the NFL speaks to the growing global reach of the sport, and it’s no small feat to succeed in a league as competitive as the NFL. Aussie players not only represent their home country but also show the world that talent from across the globe can thrive on this massive stage.

Inspiring Future Generations

Australians in the NFL are inspiring the next generation of athletes who dream of making it big. Players like Jordan Mailata and Michael Dickson have shown that the path from Aussie sports to the NFL is possible, encouraging young Australians to pursue their athletic goals. These trailblazers are not just athletes—they’re role models for kids back home.

Growing Popularity of NFL in Australia

As more Australians find success in the NFL, the sport's popularity in Australia has grown steadily. Major events like the Super Bowl attract huge audiences, with fans tuning in to see which Australian might make history. The question “who is the Australian playing in the Super Bowl?” is now a common one during the lead-up to the big game. The increasing number of Australians playing in the NFL and partnerships like the NXP x NFL Collection are helping to bring the excitement of the NFL to Aussie fans.

Conclusion

The legacy of Australians in the NFL is one of resilience, skill, and groundbreaking achievements. From Colin Scotts and Darren Bennett to modern stars like Jordan Mailata and Michael Dickson, Aussies continue to shape the league. As we celebrate the launch of the NXP x NFL Collection, we also celebrate the impact these athletes have had on the
sport and look forward to what the future holds for Australians in the NFL.