What It’s About

For the upcoming NFL season, none of the 32 teams will feature an openly Jewish player on the field in Week 1. This change comes after Green Bay Packers kicker Greg Joseph was released, leaving the league without a publicly Jewish representative at the season’s opening.

Why It Matters

The absence of Jewish players highlights the continuous underrepresentation of this community in major sports leagues such as the NFL. Despite their minority status, Jewish players like Greg Joseph have not only brought talent and dedication to their teams but also strong cultural and religious advocacy.

Context

Last season, five Jewish players were part of the NFL, with three appearing in Week 1. Out of these, four could return later in the season, while one is sidelined due to injury. The release of Greg Joseph, who had already secured the starting kicker position for the Packers, signifies a significant change. Ravens kicker Greg Joseph played for Minnesota Vikings for three years. Even though he was not the top-tier starting kicker last season, his connection to the Jewish community has remained firm. Born in South Africa, Joseph moved to Florida as a child and attended Jewish day schools.

Jewish Contribution to the NFL

Joseph’s Jewish advocacy has been evident throughout his career. He launched the “Kicks for Israel” campaign after the Hamas attack on Oct. 7, raising funds for Israel’s national food bank. His cleats during the NFL’s “My Cause, My Cleats” program featured Stars of David, and the phrases “I Stand with Israel” and “Am Yisrael Chai.” Even after his release, Joseph’s unyielding spirit inspires many in the Jewish community and the sports world alike.

Alternate Prospects

Jake Curhan, newly associated with Chicago Bears after three years with the Seattle Seahawks, also reflects Jewish representation. He joined the Bears this summer but was signed to the practice squad after being cut. Known as the “Bear Jew” due to his connections with Cal’s team (Golden Bears) and Tarantino’s film “Inglourious Basterds,” Curhan might make a return this season.

Michael Dunn of the Cleveland Browns, stashed on the reserve/non-football illness list, exemplifies persistence. The candidate eligible to return after Week 5, brings hope for another openly Jewish player in the league this season.

Looking Forward

Though tight end Anthony Firkser couldn’t secure a spot with the New York Jets this preseason, his extensive experience spans over 71 games across six NFL seasons. Another prospect, running back A.J. Dillon from the Packers, misses this season entirely due to a neck injury but aligns himself closely with the Jewish community. Dillon’s connection exemplifies the potential impact Jewish representatives can hold in the NFL.

The Bottom Line

While it’s a challenging year witnessing no openly Jewish players in Week 1, the legacies built by Greg Joseph, Jake Curhan, Michael Dunn, Anthony Firkser, and A.J. Dillon show the continuous involvement and contributions toward Israeli and Jewish causes. their comeback later in the season remains a beacon of hope for Jewish representation in major league sports. The steadfast advocacy and cultural representation portrayed by these players remain influential pillars in the NFL’s diverse sporting landscape.

This story was first published on jpost.com.