Naija no dey carry last! As the world turns its eyes to Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara for Super Bowl LX, the Nigerian diaspora isn’t just watching from the sidelines—we are taking over the gridiron. On February 8, 2026, when the Seattle Seahawks clash with the New England Patriots, the air will be thick with more than just championship tension; it will be filled with the unmistakable scent of Nigerian excellence.
From the trenches of the offensive line to the explosive hits of the secondary, six sons of the soil are ready to etch their names into NFL history. This isn’t just a game; it’s a celebration of our heritage on the world’s biggest stage.
The Patriots’ Iron Wall: Mike Onwenu and Thomas Odukoya
In Foxborough, they know that if you want a foundation that won’t crack, you look to Nigeria. Mike Onwenu (#71, Guard) has been an absolute mountain for New England. His strength is legendary, often looking like he’s moving skyscrapers instead of defensive tackles. Alongside him, Thomas Odukoya (#78, TE/Dev) continues to exemplify the grit and “never-say-die” spirit of our people. Whether they are protecting Drake Maye or opening lanes for the run, these two are the engine room of the Patriots’ offense.
The Seattle “Super Eagles”: A Defensive Masterclass
The Seahawks’ locker room might as well be in Lagos with the amount of Naija fire they’re bringing! Leading the charge is Uchenna Nwosu (#7, LB). Uchenna has been a wrecking ball all season, proving that “Uchenna” (God’s will) is indeed to dominate the backfield.
Joining him in the hunt is Boye Mafe (#53, LB), who holds the franchise record for consecutive games with a sack. When Boye gets off the line, he moves with the speed of a desert wind. And let’s not forget the “strategic brain” of the O-line, Olu Oluwatimi (#55, Center). A Rimington and Outland trophy winner, Olu is the one making the calls, ensuring the Seahawks’ offense stays as organized as a traditional wedding feast.
Rounding out the “Naija Six” is the sensation Nick Emmanwori (#3, SAF). Even with a late-week ankle scare, Nick’s determination to play shows that Nigerian spirit—we don’t back down; we show up.
Why This Matters for the Diaspora
Seeing names like Oluwatimi, Odukoya, and Nwosu scrolling across the screen during the Super Bowl broadcast is a moment of immense pride. It tells every young Nigerian kid in London, Houston, or Lagos that there is no limit to where our talent can take us. We are seeing the fruit of the “Japa” generation—parents who moved abroad with a dream, raising lions who are now kings of the turf.