From the streets of Lagos to the bright lights of the NFL, the “Green-White-Green” flag is flying higher than ever this weekend! As the NFL Divisional Round kicks off, the Nigerian diaspora is buzzing with pride. We aren’t just watching the games for the scores; we are watching our brothers—the sons of Nigeria—show the world what “Naija No Dey Carry Last” truly means.
Whether they are crashing the pocket or hauling in touchdowns, these superstars are the heartbeat of the 2026 playoffs. Let’s profile the warriors leading the charge!
The Seattle-San Francisco Showdown: A Defensive Masterclass
In a massive NFC West rivalry, the Seattle Seahawks host the San Francisco 49ers, and the Nigerian presence is undeniable.
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Boye Mafe (LB #53): Mafe has become one of the league’s most feared edge rushers. With his explosive first step, he’s been a nightmare for quarterbacks all season.
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Nick Emmanwori (SAF #3): The rookie sensation! Drafted out of South Carolina, Emmanwori has taken Seattle by storm with 81 tackles and a nose for the ball.
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Uchenna Nwosu (LB #7): A veteran anchor who brings that relentless Nigerian spirit to every snap.
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Olu Oluwatimi (C #55): The man in the middle, protecting the pocket with strength and IQ.
On the other side, keep an eye on Sam Okuayinonu (DT #91) for the 49ers, a gritty interior force, while we send strength to Malik Mustapha (SAF #6) as he continues his recovery on the PUP list.
The Chicago “Naija” Bears: Building a Dynasty
The Chicago Bears face the Rams on Sunday, and their roster reads like a “Who’s Who” of Nigerian excellence.
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Rome Odunze (WR #15): The superstar wideout is back from a late-season foot injury! After a dominant regular season with 6 touchdowns, Rome is the vertical threat the Bears need to reach the NFC Championship.
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Dayo Odeyingbo (DE #55): Since signing his $48 million deal in the offseason, Dayo has been a wrecking ball on the defensive line, proving he is one of the elite ends in the game.
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Olamide Zaccheaus (WR #14): A reliable veteran presence who always finds the open space when the game is on the line.
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Amen Ogbongbemiga (LB #45): A special teams ace and defensive depth piece who embodies hard work and versatility.
AFC Powerhouses: The Trenches and the Turf
In the AFC, our stars are locking down the line of scrimmage.
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Buffalo Bills vs. Denver Broncos: This Saturday battle features veteran Larry Ogunjobi (DT #99) and the young Tommy Akingbesote (D) for the Bills. For Denver, Eyioma Uwazuruike (DT #96) stands tall as a massive interior presence ready to shut down the run.
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Houston Texans: The legendary Dare Ogunbowale continues to be the ultimate team player, a veteran RB/Special Teams captain who leads with heart. He is joined by the veteran Foley Fatukasi (DT #91) and the inspiring Haggai Ndubuisi (DT #64), a product of the NFL’s International Player Pathway.
Why This Matters to Us
This isn’t just football; it’s a celebration of heritage. These players represent the discipline, resilience, and talent inherent in our culture. As they step onto the field this Divisional Weekend, they carry the hopes of millions back home and in the diaspora.
Will you be cheering for the Seahawks’ defense or the Bears’ aerial attack? Let me know in the comments which Naija star you’re backing to make it to the Super Bowl!