NFL to expand practice squads next season to make more room for international players

The International Player Pathway has been in place since 2017 allowing select divisions to be allocated players, with 19 members of the scheme currently on team rosters.

Washington Commanders defensive end Efe Obada is a graduate of the programme, leaving England for the Carolina Panthers before joining the Buffalo Bills and moving on to DC.

Now even more international players can benefit as a league-wide initiative will see practice squads expanded to 17 players if a qualifying player is included from 2024.

The NFL says teams can choose players identified by the International Player Pathway or independently scout for talent.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers owner and chair of the NFL international committee Joel Glazer said: “As interest and participation in our game continues to grow and thrive globally, the talent pool of players who have the potential to impact our game on and off the field keeps expanding as well.

“The opportunity for all 32 clubs to utilise an additional practice squad roster spot for an international player is a significant step forward in helping to identify, develop and enable more exciting talent from around the world to play in the NFL.

“Our clubs will embrace this new opportunity to develop the pipeline of international players as we grow our game.”

READ MORE: Minnesota Vikings @ Philadelphia Eagles tips: Winning game pick and best prop bets