Roje Stona, the reigning Olympic men's discus champion, is making a bold transition to American football by trying out for the NFL through the International Player Pathway program. At 25, he aims to follow in the footsteps of Jordan Mailata, who successfully navigated the same path to join the Philadelphia Eagles.

Stona, who recently won Olympic gold in Paris, was approached by the IPP shortly after his victory. He has a background in football, having participated in a pro day at the University of Arkansas and attending minicamps with the New Orleans Saints and Green Bay Packers.

With the IPP program having successfully signed numerous international players, Stona is determined to make a mark. His immediate focus is on the upcoming 10-week camp in Florida, while keeping the option of returning to discus in mind.

Efe Obada's journey from Nigeria to the NFL is a testament to resilience and determination. After facing abandonment and homelessness in London, he found solace in football at 22, eventually joining the Washington Commanders. His story highlights the struggles of immigration, the foster care system, and the transformative power of the NFL International Player Pathway program.

Obada reflects on his Nigerian roots, the importance of culture, and his commitment to giving back through NFL initiatives. He emphasizes the significance of representation and the pride he takes in his heritage, showcasing how his past has shaped his present and future.

The Washington Commanders are entering a new chapter under general manager Adam Peters and head coach Dan Quinn, who have revamped the roster significantly. This week, the team released former first-round pick Jamin Davis, who struggled to adapt to a new edge rusher role after being drafted as a linebacker.

Despite showing promise, Davis played sparingly this season and was part of a troubling trend for the Commanders, as none of Ron Rivera's first-round picks from 2019-2022 remain on the roster. As Washington sits at 5-2, they continue to navigate injuries on their defensive line while looking to solidify their roster.