Efe Obada

Having experienced incredible hardship — including being trafficked to London, living in foster care, and overcoming homelessness — Efe Obada discovered American football at age 22 when he joined the London Warriors.

He began training under head coach Tony Allen and worked closely with Coach Aden Durde, who played a key role in his development. After just one season and five games with the team, Efe was encouraged to pursue the NFL’s International Player Pathway, supported by his coaches at the Warriors. He successfully earned his first NFL opportunity with the Dallas Cowboys in 2015. Efe went on to build a successful six-year NFL career, playing for the Carolina Panthers, Buffalo Bills, Atlanta Falcons, and currently the Washington Commanders.

“Growing up trafficked into London and bouncing through ten different foster homes, I had nowhere to belong. Youth clubs and the London Warriors gave me a safe space, a community — and crucially, people who believed in me.”

“I discovered American football with the Warriors, playing just five games in 2014 — and from there, through the NFL Academy and International Pathway programme, I went on to earn a spot in the NFL. I owe that jump to the guidance, discipline, and belief I found at the Warriors.”

“Now as an NFL player and ambassador, I’m determined to give back — to ensure young people facing the same struggles I did have the chance to find their voice and build a future. This programme changes lives.”