Traditional American football has had its standings outside the states, namely with programs like the Canadian Football League, and the now-defunct NFL Europe. However, within the NCAA and even the pro level NFL, players have found their footing internationally. Collegiate international players in football are typically recruited from prep schools where American football is offered, or from other sports where the skills necessary are also found in American football.

Sports like rugby and soccer seem to be common favorites among international recruits, but there are always exceptions to the rule. With American football hoping to see more international recognition, the college ranks might be the best place for international recruits to start–here are three international players paving the way. 

Related: Going Global? 35 Questions International Athletes Must Ask Coaches in the Recruiting Process

Theo Melin Ohrstrom (RIG Academy, Sweden to Texas A&M)

The RIG Academy is an institution in Sweden that integrates American football into the curriculum for students aged 16-19. Ohrstrom shows that serious talent comes from anywhere in the world, standing at 6'5” and ranked as the 6th best tight end recruit coming into the NCAA. He is set to join the SEC with the Texas A&M offense next season. The uniqueness of his recruitment paired with his talent and size should make Ohrstrom a player to keep on radar for the 2023 season. 

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Yilanan Ouattara (Cologne Crocodiles, Germany to Vanderbilt)

Ouattara comes out of Germany to join the Vanderbilt Commodores this season, and while he is not putting up historic numbers in 2022, there is reason to believe he'll get more reps throughout his collegiate career. On the season, he's recorded 2 tackles in 0 games started. This is to be expected however, with the Commodores most likely wanting more time to understand his strengths and utilize him in the defense. Whether his numbers progress or not, his journey to the NCAA from an unlikely spot should not go unnoticed. Germany seems to be growing into a football market, as the NFL recently debuted in Munich since its time away from NFL Europe. 

Related: 5 Unique Ways International College Athletes Contribute to Their U.S. Teams

Laine Wilkins (ProKick Australia to University of Houston) 

Recently, there's been an increase in NCAA punters coming from Australia. The reason may be Australian football growing in popularity and the heavy usage of kicking and punting to score in the game. Laine Wilkins has been playing in the NCAA since 2020, and has quietly been one of the best punters in the game. ProKick has produced a lot of NCAA punters and kickers, and it would not be surprising to keep the academy in the loop of any college's recruiting cycle. Wilkins is in his sophomore year at Houston, and if he continues his high yardage punting averages, he should be able to make a case for more Australian punters to join the American Collegiate ranks. 

American football is continually growing as more and more athletes expose the sport to international markets. It is likely only to remain dominant in the American market, but youthful and hungry high school and college athletes can help its popularity spread well beyond the U.S.

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* Originally published on December 5, 2022, by Jenaro DelPrete