Daniel Whelan on the verge of Irish NFL HISTORY

History beckons for Dan Whelan and Ireland.

American football is making a significant impact in the island of Ireland. Just a week ago, the city of Dublin warmly received the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at the Aviva stadium, marking the beginning of the college football season. The marketing rights for the island have been given to two teams, namely the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars. Limerick had the honour of hosting the IFAF European Flag Football Championships, while we also boast our indigenous league, known as American Football Ireland. On top of that, Pro Football Ireland have two live events this week, with Christian Scotland-Williamson in Dublin on Thursday and Jason Bell in Belfast on Sunday.

Amidst these significant American football occasions occurring on the Emerald Isle, it appears almost serendipitous that the NFL is on the brink of embracing an Irish player after an absence of nearly four decades. Aged 24, Daniel Whelan hails from Wicklow and is on track to secure a spot in the esteemed 53-man roster of the legendary NFL powerhouse, the Green Bay Packers. Whelan's role is that of a punter.

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Pro Football Ireland on Instagram: “HISTORY MADE: Dan Whelan has made the Packers 53 initial man roster! He is on the verge of being the first Irish born NFL player in almost FORTY years 🇮🇪🏈”

August 29, 2023

Having relocated to the United States at the age of 13, he successfully shifted from soccer to American football.

Whelan's college experience saw him donning the UC Davis Aggies' jersey. Despite not being selected in the 2022 NFL Draft, he secured a contract as an undrafted free agent with the New Orleans Saints. However, he was later released from the team before finalizing the roster.

Having showcased his talents and skills in Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson’s recently established XFL league, Whelan attracted the attention of the Green Bay Packers. He triumphed over other athletes vying for the same position and is now on the cusp of not only making NFL history but also etching his name in Irish history.

On Tuesday night in Ireland, the news was confirmed: Whelan will make the initial 53 man roster. Ireland is close to its first active NFL player in almost forty years. It seems entirely appropriate that this Irishman will soon be outfitted in the iconic green uniform of the NFL.

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