Ulster rugby player Aaron Sexton has been chosen among 14 athletes to take part in the NFL’s International Player Pathway Programme for 2025.
The Bangor man, who played wing or fullback for Ulster, making 10 appearances for the province, will begin training in the United States at IMG Academy and will have the opportunity to showcase his talents to NFL club scouts in March.
At the conclusion of training camp, Aaron will be eligible to fill a 17th practice squad roster spot across any of the 32 teams.
Established in 2017, the IPP program aims to provide elite international athletes with the opportunity to compete at the NFL level, improve their skills and ultimately work to earn a spot on an NFL roster.
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Sexton also has experience as a track sprinter, winning the 2018 and 2019 All-Ireland Schools Championships in both the 100m and 200m, representing Bangor Grammar School. In 2019 Sexton also broke the All-Ireland schools record in both events with times of 10.43 for the 100m and 20.69 for the 200m.
Irish sportspeople like Monaghan’s Rory Beggan and Wicklow’s Mark Jackson took part in the NFL’s International Player Pathway earlier this year, alongside former rugby player Darragh Leader and Down’s Charlie Smyth, who was signed to the New Orleans Saints roster.
Sexton will go in a different pathway to that of kickers like Smyth, working out as a wide receiver/returner.
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