Ghanaian athlete Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah has been crowned the most stylish player in the NFL, earning the title after a fan vote that celebrated his traditional fashion sense and confident demeanor.
The Cleveland Browns linebacker stands out by showcasing the rich heritage of Ghana through his attire, often incorporating traditional smock and historic kente fabrics into his game-day outfits. These styles not only represent his national pride but also resonate with fans who appreciate the cultural connection.
Owusu-Koramoah, who played college football at Notre Dame, made a name for himself by winning the Butkus Award, being named the ACC Defensive Player of the Year, and becoming a unanimous All-American as a senior in 2020. He was selected by the Cleveland Browns in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft.
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In an interview with NBC News, Owusu-Koramoah admitted that he initially leaned towards Western fashion but later embraced West African styles, which now define his look and have captivated NFL fans.
“It feels good to be recognized. In my rookie year, I would throw some African fabrics into my outfits, but the connection I was building came more from studying my family members,” Owusu-Koramoah shared.
The athlete’s shift in fashion was largely inspired by his older brother, Joshua Emmanuel Owusu-Koramoah, who tragically passed away in April 2022 in a house fire. Owusu-Koramoah has since dedicated himself to honoring his brother’s memory by proudly wearing traditional Ghanaian colors.
“My brother was always the one who wore African garments. He was the guy who would mix traditional outfits with sneakers. I like to think of it as carrying on his legacy—as though my brother lives on through me,” he explained.
Owusu-Koramoah also spoke about coping with the loss of his brother, describing it as a challenging experience that has pushed him to inspire others, something he believes his brother would have been proud of.
“Trauma can be seen in two ways: it can either be a detriment that drags you down or it can instill something in you that allows new growth. I’ve faced many challenges, but I believe we have a responsibility to respond in a way that keeps us emotionally available for the next generation,” he said.
Beyond the field, Owusu-Koramoah runs a nonprofit organization in Ghana that supports student-athletes through sports and community engagement. He credits his roots for his success and feels a deep obligation to give back to society.
For Owusu-Koramoah, being a role model for the next generation is a source of pride. He emphasizes the importance of finding one’s identity as key to personal growth and success.
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“When they see me, they’re looking at someone who understands and embraces their identity,” he concluded.
