News Americas, New York, NY, October 8, 2024: Caribbean immigrants have long contributed to the fabric of U.S. society, excelling in various fields from business to sports. This impact is evident in the National Football League (NFL), where several Caribbean-born players are making their mark in the 2024 season. Here are 10 standout players from the Caribbean who are making waves on the football field:
1. Rakeem Nuñez-Roches – Belize
Rakeem Nathan Nuñez-Roches, born in Belize, is a formidable defensive end for the New York Giants. He was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in 2015 and has since become a key player in the NFL. After stints with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he won Super Bowl LV, Nuñez-Roches joined the Giants in 2023, bringing his impressive skill set to one of the league’s most competitive divisions.
2. Matthew Peart – Jamaica
Jamaican-born offensive tackle Matthew Peart has steadily built his career in the NFL. Raised in The Bronx, Peart was drafted by the New York Giants in 2020 and, after overcoming several injuries, signed with the Denver Broncos in 2024. His imposing 6’6″ frame and agility have made him a valuable asset in protecting quarterbacks and opening lanes for running backs.
3. Danielle Hunter – Jamaica
Danielle Hunter, born in St. Catherine, Jamaica, is an accomplished defensive end currently playing for the Houston Texans. Known for his explosive speed and athleticism, Hunter was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in 2015 and earned four Pro Bowl selections before signing a lucrative contract with the Texans in 2024. His story is one of perseverance, having moved to the U.S. as a child and worked his way to NFL stardom.
4. Corey Ballentine – Jamaica
Born in Jamaica, Corey Ballentine plays as a cornerback for the Green Bay Packers. After being drafted by the New York Giants in 2019, Ballentine’s journey in the NFL has included stops with the Jets, Lions, Falcons, and Cardinals. His resilience has seen him re-sign with the Packers in 2024, where his speed and defensive instincts continue to be valuable assets.
5. Javon Kinlaw – Trinidad & Tobago
Trinidadian-born defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw was selected by the San Francisco 49ers in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft. Now playing for the New York Jets, Kinlaw’s journey from childhood hardship in Washington, D.C., to becoming a dominant force on the field is inspiring. Known for his size and strength, Kinlaw has been a key contributor on the defensive line.
6. Bayron Matos – Dominican Republic
Bayron Matos, originally a basketball standout from the Dominican Republic, transitioned to football through the NFL’s International Player Pathway Program. Signed by the Miami Dolphins, Matos’ 6’7″ frame and athleticism have quickly turned heads, making him one of the most exciting new talents to watch in 2024.
7. N’Keal Harry – St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Vincentian-born wide receiver-turned-tight end N’Keal Harry currently plays for the Minnesota Vikings. Drafted by the New England Patriots in 2019, Harry’s size and skill have made him a versatile player. He transitioned to tight end in 2024, hoping to capitalize on his blocking ability and improve his impact in the NFL.
8. Mike Sainristil – Haiti
Mike Sainristil, a cornerback for the Washington Commanders, has been one of the standout rookies of 2024. Born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Sainristil immigrated to the U.S. as a child and went on to have a stellar college career at the University of Michigan, where he helped lead his team to a national championship in 2023. Drafted in the second round, he’s already making waves in the NFL with his defensive prowess.
9. Junior Colson – Haiti
Junior Colson, a linebacker for the Los Angeles Chargers, was born in Mirebalais, Haiti, before being adopted and raised in Tennessee. Known for his tenacity and leadership on the field, Colson was drafted in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft after a stellar career at Michigan, where he was a key figure in their national championship team.
10. Lewis Cine – Haiti
Lewis Cine, a safety for the Buffalo Bills, is another Haitian-born player making his mark in the NFL. After being drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 2022, Cine’s career was disrupted by a severe leg injury. However, his determination has seen him bounce back, signing with the Bills in 2024 and working his way back onto the field with the goal of becoming a top safety in the league.
These Caribbean-born athletes embody the resilience and determination that characterize the region’s rich cultural history. Their stories are a testament to the power of perseverance, talent, and hard work—proving that no matter where you come from, you can achieve greatness.
