From Discus to Defense: Olympic Champion Roje Stona Eyes NFL Stardom in 2025

In a remarkable shift from the track to the gridiron, Roje Stona, the illustrious Jamaican discus thrower and recent Olympic champion, has set his sights on a new challenge: the National Football League (NFL). Stona, who made history by winning gold in Paris 2024 and establishing an Olympic record, is among 14 diverse athletes selected for the NFL's 2025 International Player Pathway (IPP) program. This initiative seeks to identify and nurture international talent, and Stona's inclusion marks a significant crossover from athletics to American football. At just 25 years old, Stona has decided to pivot from a celebrated track and field career to pursue a dream in football. His journey began with invitations to rookie minicamps from two NFL teams—the Green Bay Packers and the New Orleans Saints—where he showcased his potential and garnered attention. “I understand the work it's going to take,” Stona remarked to BBC Sport, demonstrating his commitment and awareness of the challenges ahead. With a background at prestigious collegiate programs like Arkansas and Clemson, Stona believes in the transformative potential of the upcoming camp, which will feature intensive training under experienced coaches. Stona will not be alone in this pursuit; he will be joined by athletes from various sports backgrounds, including Australian rugby union international Jordan Petaia and Aaron Sexton, who has experience in rugby league. The cohort also includes a basketball player from New Zealand and two individuals with backgrounds in the European League of Football (ELF). This eclectic mix of talent will convene at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, in January for a 10-week rigorous training regime consisting of both fieldwork and classroom instruction. The program, which has been running since 2017, has successfully transitioned 41 athletes into the NFL, with 23 of those currently on active rosters. Notable alumni, such as Australian Jordan Mailata, who plays for the Philadelphia Eagles, and UK’s Efe Obada of the Washington Commanders, have not only secured spots on teams but have also become integral parts of their respective franchises. Mailata’s notable involvement in the Eagles’ Super Bowl run in 2023 stands as a testament to the program's effectiveness. As part of the IPP, Stona and his fellow athletes will have the opportunity to impress NFL scouts during the University of South Florida's Pro Day in March 2025. Depending on their performance, they may be signed as free agents or, for some, selected during the NFL draft, as evidenced by the recent success of Travis Clayton, who was picked by the Buffalo Bills in the seventh round after participating in the program. The NFL's commitment to expanding its international reach is evident in the extra roster spots afforded to qualifying international players, allowing teams to integrate fresh talent into their offseason rosters and practice squads. As Roje Stona embarks on this exciting new chapter, the sports world will undoubtedly be watching closely to see how this Olympic champion adapts to the rigors and demands of professional American football.