Paschal Ekeji's path to the NFL is far from ordinary. Seven years after first encountering American football through the video game "Madden," the former rugby player from South Africa is now an outside linebacker with the New York Jets, participating in the NFL's International Pathway Program.
Ekeji, who was born in Lesotho to Nigerian parents and later moved to Ficksburg, South Africa, was an accomplished rugby player before his foray into American football. His introduction to the sport came at age 17 when a friend challenged him to a game of "Madden." "I didn't know what football was," Ekeji recalled. "He beat me bad."
Driven by this defeat, Ekeji sought out online tutorials and discovered highlights of players like Odell Beckham Jr., sparking his interest in the sport. His journey toward an NFL career began to take shape in 2022 when his agent informed him about a workout in Ghana hosted by former Giants player Osi Umenyiora, aimed at discovering international talent. Ekeji tried out as a receiver but was deemed too young for the program at the time.
He remained connected to the NFL, watching games when possible. A subsequent opportunity arose in January 2025, leading him to transition to the defensive end position. The Jets signed Ekeji in November and added him to their practice squad.
Upon joining the Jets, Ekeji's physical transformation and football understanding have been significant. Initially weighing around 220 pounds, he dedicated himself to strength training after his first practice, where he felt overwhelmed by the team's offensive players. "I need to get in the weight room," he told the strength and conditioning coach.
Coach Aaron Glenn noted Ekeji's commitment, stating, "He took it to heart and he came back at 245." Ekeji spent the offseason in New Jersey, diligently working to add the requested weight. His physical development has been matched by his growing football acumen. Defensive lineman Harrison Phillips observed Ekeji's progress, noting that he can now identify formations and understand how defensive calls change based on them, a stark contrast to his initial struggles differentiating between running backs and tight ends.
"There isn't a player who I've seen make a bigger jump in a short period of time," Phillips said. "Now, he's coming from a very low education on NFL football and things like that, so I'm expecting him to make those jumps."
Ekeji's preseason debut against the Buccaneers marked the first football game he had ever played in, at the age of 24. He is slated to play in his third career football game against the Giants, potentially sharing the field with one of his early inspirations, Odell Beckham Jr.
"That's a blessing," Ekeji said. "I'm thankful to God for giving me an opportunity to be in this place. I don't take it for granted."
Ekeji's roster spot is likely secure, as the Jets can utilize a practice squad exemption for players in the International Pathway Program, meaning he won't count against their regular roster limit. His aspiration is to continue progressing in the sport and perhaps play in a regular-season game someday.