In a largely uneventful preseason game between the Rams and the Chargers at SoFi Stadium, a standout moment emerged that captured the essence of sportsmanship and determination. CJ Okoye, a player hailing from the NFL International Player Pathway Program, marked his presence with a remarkable performance that resonated beyond the game itself.
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As the Rams’ offensive play concluded, Stetson Bennett faced a sack by CJ Okoye, who was participating in his inaugural organized football match.
The Nigerian player, a recent addition to the Chargers’ roster through the NFL International Player Pathway Program, tackled the backup quarterback for a 16-yard loss on a third-and-19 play from the Chargers’ 36-yard line.
The Chargers’ sideline erupted in jubilation, responding to Okoye’s impactful play as if it had secured a Super Bowl victory.
Players on the team celebrated with whoops, jumps, cheers, and embraces, showcasing the camaraderie and unity of the sport.
Chargers coach Brandon Staley expressed his admiration for the moment, emphasizing its significance within the realm of the NFL.
He noted, “That’s what the NFL is about, stories like that. It’s going to be a memorable moment for our whole team.”
Staley further shared a heartening incident that occurred earlier in the locker room.
Handing out a game ball, he told the team, “The way that sideline erupted, that’s what we were hoping for tonight.” He then exclaimed, “CJ Okoye!” as he held up the football.
Okoye, who is 21 years old, represents one of several African players discovered through Osi Umenyiora’s initiative “The Uprise” in 2020.
This initiative led to the signing of players like Kehinde Oginni Hassan, Haggai Chisom Ndubuisi, and Chigbo Roy Mbaeteka, who had not previously participated in organized football.
Standing at an impressive 6 feet 7 inches and weighing 315 pounds, Okoye emerged as a promising talent.
He attended the first NFL Africa talent camp in Ghana in 2022 and subsequently participated in the International Combine in London.
His performance earned him a spot in the NFL International Player Pathway Program, which led him to join the Chargers.
Notably, Okoye can remain on the practice squad throughout the season without occupying a roster spot.
Osi Umenyiora, the former New York Giants Pro Bowl defensive lineman and creator of “The Uprise,” expressed his enthusiasm for the accomplishments of these young Nigerian players.
Umenyiora praised their dedication and hard work, expressing excitement about their future development and the pride they bring to Nigeria.
For CJ Okoye, this remarkable moment represents a journey of determination.
Reflecting on his path, he shared, “I don’t know the game, I don’t understand the game, I don’t know what it means, I don’t know what it takes.
I knew part of what it took to get here, but I didn’t know all of what it took to get here. You need people who know the game, but after the London Combine, I knew what I wanted. I knew that I had to get it.”
In this snapshot of dedication, perseverance, and unity, CJ Okoye’s impact transcended the confines of a preseason game, symbolizing the essence of sportsmanship and the power of aspirations.
