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McNamee only arrived in the US on Friday night due to visa issues.
Sun, 10 Aug, 2025 – 15:38
Mark McNamee played in his first game for the Green Bay Packers on Saturday night, a 30-10 pre-season defeat to the New York Jets. Remarkably, the Dubliner did so before taking part in his first official practice with the Packers.
McNamee signed a contract with the team last month to be their International Player Pathway Program designee but his arrival in Wisconsin was delayed as he awaited a visa. He only received the green light for his visa earlier this week and arrived in the States late on Friday night.
The 25-year-old, who was a goalkeeper with Ballyboden St Enda’s, took all three kick-offs for the Packers. He is the second Irish player on their roster, joining Wicklow-born Daniel Whelan who took six punts in Saturday’s game.
“It’s only really sinking in now,” McNamee said.
“I knew I had a job to do, so that was kind of my focus. I wasn’t really thinking about the occasion at all, but it’s unbelievable. Obviously disappointed in the result first and foremost, but to actually have suited up and played in the NFL is incredible and feels like it’s the beginning, which is definitely a good moment for me and my family.”
Derry native Jude McAtamney, who is on the New York Giants’ roster, featured in his side’s 34-25 victory over the Buffalo Bills on Saturday. The Swatragh man kicked a 43-yard field goal and also an extra point.
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