The National Football League has hosted numerous games over the years. Regardless of who gets drafted, one thing is certain; NFL’s popularity has only increased over time. The improving global reach of the NFL today can be attributed to a variety of factors, including the league’s willingness to include more black athletes in sports.
Gone are the days when the NFL was only popular in North America. Today, it is extending beyond those boundaries and including black athletes, making it more attractive to people from other regions of the world.
In 2022, approximately 56.4% of NFL players were African-American. This is a rather impressive figure considering how it wasn’t too long ago that Black sportsmen were shunned away.
How Has the Global Reach of the NFL Changed?
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The NFL isn’t just popular as a sport. Its fanbase goes far beyond the simple game. For many years, it has gathered fans globally by expanding through events.
American football isn’t that popular outside North America. Regardless, the NFL has created an appeal and popularity beyond these boundaries. One of the prime examples of this effort is the NFL International Series which has introduced the game to diverse regions worldwide.
NFL’s reach has also been encouraged by the ease of access provided by technology in recent years. With broadcasting services, it is now possible to enjoy live games all around the world, view highlights, and take an active interest in the game despite not being in North America.
How Has the NFL Incorporated Black Athletes in Sports Over the Years?
Over the years, the NFL has incorporated many black athletes into the game. These athletes have made their way to the top due to their resilience and dedication to the sport. This includes older legends such as Jim Brown and newer ones like Russell Wilson.
Quarterbacks
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Black athletes have gained momentum in the sport through their positions as quarterbacks. This has been a victory that has been much awaited by black athletes in sports as they had not received leadership positions in the past.
For example, the first week of the 2020 NFL season witnessed 10 black quarterbacks which included Cam Newton, Dwayne Haskins, Dak Prescott, Tyrod Taylor, Teddy Bridgewater, Lamar Jackson, Patrick Mahomes, Deshaun Watson, Russell Wilson, and Kyler Murray. This was record-breaking!
Programs
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The NFL hasn’t just provided more opportunities to black athletes over the years but has also introduced programs that have added more diversity to the sport. This includes initiatives such as the NFL’s Inspire Change program.
The programs have encouraged a change and increase in diversity in coaching and executive positions. Moreover, international talent has also been more welcomed over the years and can be expected in upcoming sports events worldwide. This includes countries like UK, Germany, Canada, and Australia. These advancements have added to the global reach of the NFL.
Final Thoughts
We can expect to see much more global talent in upcoming sports events with the increase in initiatives by the NFL to make the sport more inclusive. The addition of black athletes in sports and the global reach of the NFL has proved beneficial for people all around the world.
Moreover, the achievements of black athletes in the NFL over the years show their dedication to the sport and their resilience in the face of all the challenges they have faced as athletes over the years. As the NFL embraces diversity through its programs and drafting, it adds to its popularity, ensuring that it remains a voice for change worldwide.
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