The NFL’s preseason provides an opportunity for players with an outside shot to make the roster to prove themselves.
During the Los Angeles Chargers‘ first preseason game, one of their newest players was able to do just that.
CJ Okoye is a defensive lineman for the Chargers and a member of the International Pathway program.
He recorded a sack in their first preseason game, which he said was “an amazing moment,” per Around the NFL.
Chargers DL CJ Okoye on improbable journey that saw him get a sack in first organized football game: “Sometimes it hits me, ‘You’re in the States with the Chargers in the NFL. You need to make the most out of it.’ I’m shocked every day.”https://t.co/f2tiFWmDIS pic.twitter.com/cMIqBi312y
— Around The NFL (@AroundTheNFL) August 16, 2023
Okoye came to the United States from Nigeria and hadn’t played organized football before joining the Chargers.
This International Pathway program has been a great asset for the NFL, providing players like Jordan Mailata.
Mailata was a rugby player in Australia but was given a chance to join the NFL.
He took full advantage, and is now a part of one of the league’s top offensive lines, playing for the Philadelphia Eagles.
For Okoye, he understands that he might make the roster in year one, as he’s adjusting to a new sport.
However, given his size and athletic profile, the Chargers might be inclined to give him a few chances to succeed.
The Chargers’ defense has been dominant at times when they’ve been fully healthy.
Given their injury concerns, however, they haven’t broken through in the AFC.
The Chargers have to play the Kansas City Chiefs twice per year, who continue to dominate the AFC West.
Could adding a player like Okoye be the difference-maker they need to change things up, at least adding another depth piece to the roster?
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Analyst Notes Why Preseason Sack Was Special For Chargers Defensive Lineman