African Players Crowned Super Bowl LX Champions

African players crowned Super Bowl LX champions delivered a defining moment for the continent and its diaspora on Sunday, February 8, 2026. As the Seattle Seahawks defeated the New England Patriots 29–13, six athletes of African heritage lifted the Lombardi Trophy, marking one of the strongest African representations on a championship roster in NFL history.

Each of the six champions traces their heritage to Nigeria, with Jaxon Smith-Njigba also proudly representing Sierra Leone through his paternal lineage. This victory stands as a major milestone for Nigerian representation in the NFL. It also reflects a growing pipeline of African talent shaping American football at the highest level.

Notably, the 2026 Seahawks roster contained the highest concentration of Nigerian heritage talent ever assembled on a Super Bowl-winning team. That concentration signals the continued rise of African talent within American football.

Meet the African Players Crowned Super Bowl LX Champions

Jaxon Smith-Njigba

Born in Texas with Sierra Leonean and Nigerian roots, Jaxon Smith-Njigba led the offensive charge throughout the season. He recorded 102 receptions for 1,325 yards and 10 touchdowns in 2025, earning Pro Bowl recognition. While he posted four catches for 27 yards in the Super Bowl itself, his regular-season dominance powered Seattle’s championship run. Importantly, he wears the Sierra Leonean flag on his helmet to honour his paternal grandparents, keeping heritage visible on the sport’s biggest stage.

Uchenna Nwosu

Uchenna Nwosu, born in Carson, California to Nigerian parents, anchored Seattle’s defense. Since entering the league in 2018, he has built a reputation as a disciplined and consistent linebacker. During the 2025 season, he recorded 84 tackles and seven sacks, including key playoff stops that shifted momentum. Coaches regularly credit his preparation and leadership for stabilizing the defensive unit.

Boye Mafe

Boye Mafe, born to Nigerian immigrant parents, continued his rise as one of Seattle’s most dangerous edge rushers. Drafted in 2022, he recorded nine sacks in 2025 alone. His speed and relentless pursuit disrupted opposing quarterbacks all season. As a result, Seattle consistently closed out tight games with defensive authority.

Nick Emmanwori

Drafted in 2025, Nick Emmanwori quickly emerged as a defensive standout. Born to Nigerian parents, he delivered 81 tackles, defended 11 passes, and recorded an interception in his rookie season. Moreover, his versatility allowed Seattle to adjust coverage schemes seamlessly. Off the field, his mother, Justina Emmanwori, went viral after humorously admitting she did not fully understand the Super Bowl hype, adding a relatable family moment to the championship story.

Olusegun “Olu” Oluwatimi

Oluwatimi brought intelligence and stability to the offensive line. The Maryland-born center, raised in a Nigerian household, handled pre-snap protections and ensured offensive consistency throughout the season. Although his role rarely draws headlines, his control of the line of scrimmage protected the quarterback and sustained Seattle’s rhythm.

Jalen Milroe

Quarterback Jalen Milroe, whose mother is of Nigerian descent, added depth and mobility to the squad. Though primarily a backup, he contributed three rushing touchdowns and one passing touchdown in specialized packages. Consequently, Seattle maintained flexibility in high-pressure moments.

While the Seahawks celebrated six African players crowned Super Bowl LX champions, the Patriots also featured Nigerian heritage talent. Offensive lineman Michael Onwenu, born in Detroit to Nigerian parents, started all 17 games in 2025 and helped power a dominant rushing attack. Even in defeat, his presence reinforced the broader African imprint on the league.

Beyond statistics and trophies, this Super Bowl signaled a cultural shift. American football continues to grow in visibility across African communities, particularly among diaspora audiences in North America. Therefore, seeing African players crowned Super Bowl LX champions resonates far beyond the field. It reflects identity, representation, and long-term influence.

From defensive anchors to explosive playmakers, these athletes carried both competitive ambition and continental pride onto the field. Super Bowl LX did not simply produce champions. It affirmed that African excellence now sits firmly within the NFL’s championship legacy.