Roje Stona to Train in NFL Pathway Program

Jamaican Olympic discus champion Roje Stona is one of 14 athletes selected for the NFL's International Player Pathway (IPP) program, aiming to transition from track and field to American football. Stona made history at the Paris Olympics by winning gold with a record-breaking discus throw, making him the first Jamaican to win an Olympic throwing event. Despite having limited experience in football, he previously attended NFL rookie minicamps with the Green Bay Packers and New Orleans Saints. The IPP program provides a 10-week training camp at IMG Academy in Florida, culminating in a pro day for NFL scouts. Stona is considering roles such as defensive end or tight end, inspired by successful IPP graduates like Jordan Mailata of the Philadelphia Eagles. The program, established in 2017, has facilitated opportunities for international athletes to join NFL teams, with 23 IPP players currently on NFL rosters.