The Jamaica Olympic Association lauds gold medallist Rojé Stona as he transitions from track to American football.

Whenever a Jamaican athlete steps onto the field, the world takes notice. From track and field to American football, the resilience and sheer talent of our sportsmen continue to make a lasting impact on the global stage.

While track and field has long been Jamaica’s claim to fame, the NFL has increasingly felt the presence of Jamaican-born players, proving that our athletes can dominate across multiple disciplines.

Since the Super Bowl’s inception in 1967, the NFL has captivated millions, and Jamaicans have steadily made their mark in the league.

With more than 40 players of Jamaican heritage suiting up over the years, the island’s influence on American football continues to grow. From dominant defensive linemen to agile cornerbacks, these athletes uphold Jamaica’s reputation for producing world-class sports talent.

One such standout is Danielle Hunter, a three-time Pro Bowl pass rusher for the Minnesota Vikings.

Born in St. Catherine, Hunter ranks among the league’s top defensive players, consistently terrorising quarterbacks with his explosive speed and strength. His performances have cemented his reputation as one of the NFL’s elite edge rushers.

Another rising star is Matt Peart, an offensive tackle for the New York Giants, who honed his skills after moving from Kingston to the United States as a child. Peart’s power, discipline, and resilience reflect the well-known Jamaican spirit of determination and excellence.

Representing Montego Bay, Corey Ballentine has carved his path as a cornerback for the Green Bay Packers. His journey, from playing at a Division II college to making the NFL, embodies the grit and perseverance that define Jamaican athletes.

These players—Hunter, Peart, and Ballentine—carry the banner of Jamaican excellence, proving that the island’s sporting prowess extends far beyond the track. While these athletes continue to shine in the NFL, a new Jamaican star is emerging, eager to
follow in their footsteps.

About Stona

Rojé Stona, a 25-year-old Olympic discus gold medallist, is now setting his sights on the NFL, eager to translate his raw power and athleticism to the football field. His ambition reflects the relentless pursuit of greatness that defines Jamaican athletes.

Born in Montego Bay, Stona made waves at the University of Arkansas, where his dominance in track and field seamlessly transitioned into football aspirations. Just four days after securing a silver medal in the shot put at the NCAA Championships in Boston, he delivered a standout performance at his NFL Pro Day—showcasing his rare blend of size, strength, and speed.

Standing at 6’7” and weighing 265 pounds, Stona boasts a remarkable 7’2” wingspan, 23 bench press reps, a 33.5-inch vertical leap, and a 10’6” broad jump. His impressive 4.69-second 40-yard dash further cements his elite athleticism, making him a formidable prospect for the gridiron.

Rojé’s bold decision to pivot from Olympic athletics to American football isn’t just a personal milestone—it’s part of a larger shift within the sporting world.

According to JOA president Christopher Samuda, Stona’s transition represents a growing trend among athletes who are exploring opportunities outside their original sports.

“Rojé’s disclosure of his engagement with the NFL is perhaps symptomatic of a trend in sport
where sportsmen and women are redefining talent in a plural context, whether in the name of
self-actualisation and/or for economic reasons,” he explained.

Furthermore, there is greater access to mainstream sports as agents and managers compete for sport-specific and history-making talent to gain a competitive advantage and/or a commercial profile for the sport, with simultaneous and increasing prospects for greater gate receipts and returns on investments.

The JOA praised Stona’s achievements, underscoring the significance of his journey as he explores new frontiers in professional sports.

“Rojé’s Olympic success and Olympic record achievements, coupled with his acknowledged physical ability, will earn the attention of the NFLs of the day. If he can, in the NFL, mirror his success in the field where he was king of the ring in Paris, it will not only be a precedent but an impetus for those who are aspiring with the same thoughts.”

As the world watched Super Bowl LIX on February 9, Jamaica was no exception.

Across the island, fans gathered in bars, backyards, and sports lounges, sharing in the excitement of every touchdown, tackle, and game-changing play.

The unmistakable clink of cold Red Stripe bottles punctuated the cheers and debates, as Jamaicans—whether longtime NFL enthusiasts or newcomers drawn in by the growing presence of homegrown talent—embraced the sport with the same passion they bring to track and field.

For many, the Super Bowl was a moment to celebrate the island’s deepening connection to American football. With players like Hunter, Peart, and Ballentine making their mark and Stona poised to join their ranks, Jamaica’s influence on the sport is undeniable.

From the track to the football field, the island continues to defy expectations, proving that no matter the sport, our athletes are always likkle but tallawah.