Jamaicans love sports, especially track & field and “football”—which is known as soccer in the United States. American football has never been a major sport on the island, and until recently, you couldn’t find any organized American football leagues in Jamaica. Despite this, several Jamaicans have made a name for themselves in the NFL. The first Jamaican-born player to reach the league was Craig Bingham, who played for the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 1980s. But when it comes to Super Bowl success, one Jamaican stands above the rest—Patrick Chung.
Patrick Chung: The Most Decorated Jamaican in NFL History
Patrick Chung, born in Kingston, Jamaica, is the Jamaican with the most Super Bowl rings, having won three championships with the New England Patriots. After moving to the United States as a child, he played college football at the University of Oregon before being drafted by the Patriots in the second round of the 2009 NFL Draft. Over his 12-season career, Chung became a key part of the Patriots’ defense, known for his versatility, hard-hitting tackles, and leadership. His Super Bowl victories in 2015, 2017, and 2019 cemented his place in NFL history.
Other Jamaicans with Super Bowl Rings
Chung isn’t the only Jamaican to taste Super Bowl glory. Rohan Davey, a former quarterback, won two Super Bowls as Tom Brady’s backup with the Patriots in the early 2000s. Kevin Boothe, an offensive lineman born to Jamaican parents, won two Super Bowl rings with the New York Giants in 2008 and 2012. Defensive stars like Dwight Freeney and Ndamukong Suh, who have Jamaican roots, have also won Super Bowls during their careers.
Craig Bingham: The Pioneer of Jamaicans in the NFL
Before Chung, Davey, Suh or Boothe, there was Craig Bingham. Born in Kingston, Bingham made history as the first Jamaican to play in the NFL. He was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1982 and also had a stint with the San Diego Chargers. While his career didn’t include any Super Bowl wins, he paved the way for future generations of Jamaican-born and Jamaican-descended athletes in American football.
Jamaican Influence on the NFL
While American football remains a niche sport in Jamaica, the success of players like Chung, Davey, Boothe, and others has inspired interest in the game among young athletes. With more exposure and training opportunities, perhaps we will see even more Jamaican-born players making an impact in the NFL in the future.
Photo – Deposit Photos, Patrick Chung
