There are always a few surprises when NFL teams set their initial 53-man roster. The 2024 Tennessee Titans roster was no exception. When the team announced its initial roster, it included an unlikely tight end, Thomas Odukoya. Signed via the International Player Pathway Program, Odykoya will become the first Dutch-born player to play in the NFL during the regular season.
While many will only remember Odukoya for his incredible effort in thwarting a potential game-changing touchdown, he had an impressive preseason overall and showed continued growth.
Watch Netherlands-born Thomas Odukoya (@ThomasO_) chase down this play and save a touchdown to end the half. pic.twitter.com/71C6oofMLC
— NFL (@NFL) August 25, 2024
Originally signed by the Titans as an undrafted free agent following the 2022 NFL draft, the Eastern Michigan University product has been inching toward a roster spot, and now he has broken through. His commitment and work ethic were mentioned as he was singled out by general manager Ran Carthon in his post-cut-down press conference.
“For a guy to be an international practice squad guy, to now earn his chance on the 53. That’s what this league is about, and that’s what that program is about.”
Carthon is spot on, and the league hopes that more international players can make an impact. What kind of impact will Odukoya make in 2024? No one is sure, but he has his sights on the season opener when the Titans take on the Chicago Bears on September 8.
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