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Mexican NFL Stars to Watch This 2024 Season
The start of the NFL season is about to kick off, and this year, there’s an extra reason to tune in: the growing presence of Latino players in the league. As of early September, 45 Latino players were part of NFL teams, with 31 on 53-man rosters and 14 on practice squads.
Big-name players like Fred Warner, versatile veterans like Jon Feliciano, Braxton Berrios, and Julian Love, and rising stars such as Chris Olave, Isiah Pacheco, and Christian Gonzalez have made their contributions to the NFL, and to the sport in general.
Among these talented athletes are several with Mexican heritage who are set to make a big impact this season.
Let’s look at some Mexican players to watch during this 2024 NFL season.
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Fred Warner | LB | San Francisco 49ers
Fred Warner is a name that commands respect in the NFL. With Mexican and Panamanian roots, Warner has become one of the league’s top linebackers since being drafted in 2018. Fred has racked up over 115 tackles each season for six years straight and, last year, he forced four fumbles and grabbed four interceptions, helping lead the 49ers to the Super Bowl. He’s a three-time first-team All-Pro and is undoubtedly a player to keep your eyes on this season.
Alijah Vera-Tucker | OL | New York Jets
Alijah Vera-Tucker is a crucial part of the New York Jets offensive line. Drafted 14th overall in 2021, this lineman of Mexican descent wasted no time showing his worth, earning a spot on the PFWA All-Rookie Team. Injuries slowed him down a bit over the past two seasons, but now that he’s fully recovered, Vera-Tucker will be key in protecting star quarterback Aaron Rodgers and opening lanes for running back Breece Hall. His performance could be pivotal in the Jets’ push for success this season.
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Julian Love | DB | Seattle Seahawks
Julian Love, of Mexican and Cuban heritage, is a leader in the Seattle Seahawks secondary. After four strong years with the Giants, Love joined the Seahawks last season and earned his first Pro Bowl selection. He finished the year with 123 tackles, four interceptions, and multiple forced fumbles, showing his ability to make game-changing plays. As the veteran presence in a young secondary, Love will be instrumental in guiding the Seahawks’ defense as they aim for the playoffs.
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Steve Avila | OL | Los Angeles Rams
Steve Avila, whose given name is Esteban, is a promising young talent on the Rams’ offensive line. Drafted in the second round in 2023, Avila had a standout rookie season, starting all 17 games at left guard and earning a spot on the PFWA All-Rookie Team. This year, he’s transitioning to center, where he’ll be the anchor of the Rams’ line, protecting the quarterback and creating opportunities for the running game. His development will be key for a Rams offense looking to bounce back this season.
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Will Hernandez | OL | Arizona Cardinals
Will Hernandez’s journey to the NFL is a true underdog story. Despite receiving just one scholarship offer out of high school, Hernandez worked his way to becoming a second-round pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. He quickly proved his worth, earning PFWA All-Rookie Team honors and establishing himself as one of the league’s top guards. Of Mexican heritage, Hernandez enters his seventh NFL season as a key player for the Cardinals and hopes to help them return to the playoffs.
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Malcolm Rodriguez | LB | Detroit Lions
Malcolm Rodriguez, of Mexican and Cherokee descent, has been a standout player for the Detroit Lions. Drafted in the sixth round in 2022, Rodriguez started as an impressive rookie, starting 15 games and earning PFWA All-Rookie Team honors. Last season, he moved to a reserve role but still played a vital part in the Lions’ success. As Detroit looks to build on their first playoff appearance since 2016, Rodriguez is expected to step up and take on a bigger role in the defense.
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Bryce Young | QB | Carolina Panthers
Bryce Young, the first overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, might surprise some by appearing on this list, but he has Mexican heritage. Young had a challenging rookie season, with 11 touchdowns and 10 interceptions, but he’s now under the guidance of head coach Dave Canales, who is also of Latino descent. With a new scheme and added offensive talent, Young is poised to make significant strides in his second year, aiming to lead the Panthers to a successful season.
Corey Bojorquez | P | Cleveland Browns
Corey Bojorquez, one of the top punters in the NFL, has Mexican roots. He joined the league as an undrafted free agent in 2018 and has played for several teams before finding a home with the Cleveland Browns. Last season, Bojorquez ranked fifth in the NFL for pinning opponents inside their own 20-yard line, a crucial stat for field position. His consistent performance makes him a key asset for the Browns’ special teams.
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Rigoberto Sanchez | P | Indianapolis Colts
Rigoberto Sanchez has been a reliable punter for the Indianapolis Colts since entering the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2017. Sanchez, of Mexican heritage, made an immediate impact, earning PFWA All-Rookie Team honors in his first season. He’s known for his precision, consistently pinning opponents deep into their territory. Sanchez will continue to be a vital part of the Colts’ game plan as they navigate the challenges of the upcoming season.
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