Kenyan Rugby Star Joshua Weru Signs with Philadelphia Eagles as Undrafted Free Agent
Kenyan athlete Joshua Weru has joined the Philadelphia Eagles after the 2026 NFL Draft, signing as an undrafted free agent through the league’s International Player Pathway program.
The 6-foot-4, 244-pound edge rusher from Nairobi brings an impressive athletic background, having grown up playing rugby and representing Kenya’s national team. Weru moved to England at age 14 and spent time in the Northampton Saints academy system before focusing on his international rugby career, where he even scored against the United States in Rugby World Cup qualifiers.
Weru stood out during pre-draft workouts with remarkable testing numbers for a player transitioning from rugby to American football. He recorded a 4.45-second 40-yard dash, a 41-inch vertical jump, and an 11-foot-2 broad jump, all of which ranked at the top among edge prospects at the HBCU Combine showcase. These results, combined with his size, long arms, and raw power, caught the attention of several NFL teams. Although he went undrafted, the Eagles quickly added him to their roster, continuing their successful history with international talent—the team already features standout left tackle Jordan Mailata, who also came through the International Player Pathway.
As a former rugby player with limited experience in American football, Weru is viewed as a high-upside developmental prospect. He has been studying film of established NFL edge rushers such as Nolan Smith of the Eagles, Brian Burns, and Nik Bonitto to prepare for the professional game. Coaches see him as a moldable athlete who could develop into a pass-rushing threat on the defensive line. The Eagles’ decision to sign him reflects their willingness to invest in raw, athletic talent with strong physical tools.
This move marks another proud moment for Kenyan sports on the global stage. Weru’s journey from rugby fields in Nairobi and England to the NFL highlights the growing opportunities for international athletes. Fans in Kenya and Eagles supporters alike will be watching closely as he begins training camp and works to earn a spot on the final roster. The signing adds depth to Philadelphia’s defensive front and continues the team’s tradition of nurturing promising players from outside the United States.
