Irish Talent Joins the NFL’s International Player Pathway Programme
The National Football League (NFL) has announced the inclusion of two Irish athletes, Mark McNamee and Ross Bolger, in the International Player Pathway (IPP) programme for 2025. This prestigious programme, established in 2017, aims to provide elite international athletes with the opportunity to compete at the NFL level, refine their skills, and work towards earning a spot on an NFL roster. McNamee, 25, transitions from a successful career in gaelic football, where he played for the Dublin club Ballyboden St Enda’s. Bolger, 23, brings a different set of skills to the table, having excelled as a punter and kicker during his college football season at Idaho State University. Both athletes performed impressively in front of NFL scouts at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, showcasing their potential to make significant contributions to the NFL.
Following in the Footsteps of Charlie Smyth
Mark McNamee and Ross Bolger join the IPP programme with the hope of following in the footsteps of Charlie Smyth, a former Down gaelic footballer who secured a place on the New Orleans Saints practice squad via the same programme in 2024. Smyth’s journey is a testament to the potential of the IPP programme, as his NFL career remains alive and well after signing a new contract with the Saints last month. This agreement guarantees him at least another off-season with the team, providing valuable experience and further opportunities to develop his skills. Smyth’s success story serves as an inspiration to McNamee and Bolger, demonstrating that with dedication and hard work, the transition from gaelic football to the NFL is not only possible but can be highly rewarding.
A Diverse Group of International Talents
Joining McNamee and Bolger in the 2025 IPP class are three other specialists: German punter Bastian Roppelt, German kicker Lenny Krieg, and Italian kicker Jonata Loria. The initial 14-strong group, announced in December, represents a diverse array of international talents, each bringing unique skills and backgrounds to the programme. This diversity is one of the strengths of the IPP, as it not only introduces new perspectives and techniques to the NFL but also serves as a platform for international athletes to showcase their talents on a global stage. The inclusion of Irish athletes like McNamee and Bolger highlights the growing interest and potential of European talent in American football, opening up new avenues for athletes from different sporting backgrounds to pursue their NFL dreams.
A Milestone for Irish Football
The journey of Mark McNamee and Ross Bolger is not just a personal achievement but also a significant milestone for Irish football. Their inclusion in the IPP programme marks a growing trend of Irish athletes making their mark in the NFL, a trend that began with Jude McAtamney, the first Irish-born placekicker to feature in a regular season NFL game since 1985. McAtamney made his debut with the New York Giants in a game against the Washington Commanders in November, setting a precedent for future Irish athletes. The success of McAtamney, along with the continued efforts of Charlie Smyth, underscores the potential for Irish athletes to excel in American football and opens the door for more Irish talent to join the ranks of the NFL.
The Future of the IPP Programme
The success of the IPP programme is evident in the continued support and expansion of the initiative. The programme’s goal of providing elite international athletes with the opportunity to compete at the NFL level is being realized through the inclusion of athletes like McNamee and Bolger. The programme’s impact is not just limited to the athletes themselves but extends to the broader NFL community, introducing new talent and perspectives to the league. The NFL’s commitment to the IPP programme is further highlighted by the announcement of the first regular season game to take place in Ireland. This historic event, set to be played at Dublin’s Croke Park next autumn, will feature the Pittsburgh Steelers as the host team. The game represents a significant step in the NFL’s efforts to globalize the sport and engage with international fans and athletes.
A Bright Future for Irish NFL Aspirants
The journey of Mark McNamee and Ross Bolger is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting chapter for Irish involvement in the NFL. With the continued success of Charlie Smyth and Jude McAtamney, the path for Irish athletes to join the NFL is becoming clearer and more accessible. The IPP programme, along with the upcoming regular season game in Ireland, is poised to create new opportunities and inspire a new generation of Irish athletes to pursue their NFL dreams. As the NFL continues to expand its global reach, the inclusion of Irish talent is a testament to the sport’s growing popularity and the potential for athletes from diverse backgrounds to succeed at the highest level. The future looks bright for Irish NFL aspirants, and the stories of McNamee and Bolger will undoubtedly be remembered as part of a new era of Irish involvement in American football.
