In the world of the NFL, players often grab attention for their skills, on-field heroics, or even their eccentric personalities. But sometimes, it’s their names that steal the spotlight. Whether it's during player introductions or while listening to game commentary, these names can bring a smile or even a laugh. Here’s a collection of the strangest NFL names, highlighting some of the most unusual and funny ones that have graced the league.
Top Funniest and Most Unusual NFL Names
The NFL is filled with athletes whose names are as memorable as their performances on the field. From tongue twisters to names that seem straight out of a comic book, the following players are recognized as much for their names as for their game.
Chad OchoCinco (Retired, WR, Cincinnati Bengals) A name that’s as flashy as his personality, Chad Johnson legally changed his last name to OchoCinco of his jersey number 85.
Instagram | bleacherfan | Chad OchoCinco's name change reflects his bold personality and iconic jersey number 85.
Dick Butkus (Retired, LB, Chicago Bears) A name that’s been the butt of many jokes, Butkus was anything but a joke on the field, known as one of the most ferocious linebackers in NFL history.
Ha Ha Clinton-Dix (Retired, Safety, Green Bay Packers) With a name like that, how could fans and commentators not chuckle? Clinton-Dix became known as much for his solid play as for his memorable name.
Barkevious Mingo (OL, Atlanta Falcons) This is one of those names that makes you wonder about its origins. Barkevious Mingo’s name is as unique as his football journey.
Guy Whimper (Retired, Tackle, Jacksonville Jaguars) Despite what his name might suggest, there was nothing weak about this offensive tackle’s game.
D'Brickashaw Ferguson (Retired, OT, New York Jets) Few names command attention like D’Brickashaw Ferguson. His name is nearly as legendary as his reputation as one of the best offensive tackles in Jets history.
Captain Munnerlyn (Retired, CB, Carolina Panthers) A name fit for a leader, Captain Munnerlyn lived up to the expectations his name suggested on the field.
BenJarvus Green-Ellis (Retired, RB, Cincinnati Bengals) Known as “The Law Firm” because of his lengthy name, Green-Ellis made a name for himself as a reliable running back.
Fair Hooker (Retired, WR, Cleveland Browns) It’s hard to imagine what his parents were thinking, but Fair Hooker’s name certainly stands out in NFL history.
John David Booty (Retired, QB, Minnesota Vikings) With a name like that, it’s no surprise that John David Booty became a memorable figure, even if his NFL career was short-lived.
Earthwind Moreland (Retired, CB, New England Patriots) A name that reflects a love for nature, Earthwind Moreland’s unique moniker has left a lasting impression.
Richie Incognito (Retired, Guard, Miami Dolphins) Ironically, with a name like Incognito, Richie was anything but easy to overlook on the field.
These names are just a small sampling of the unique monikers that have graced the NFL, but some names deserve special mention. Here are the top 12 strangest NFL names that have become legends in their own right.
Top 12 NFL Players with the Funniest and Most Unusual Names
1. D'Brickashaw Ferguson - Retired D’Brickashaw Ferguson tops the list with a name that is as solid as the offensive line he once anchored. His name alone could intimidate defenders, making it one of the most iconic in NFL history.
2. Greedy Williams - Philadelphia Eagles Greedy by name, and greedy for the ball. His nickname, given by his aunt when he was a child, has stuck with him and feels all too appropriate for this skilled cornerback.
3. Randy Bullock - Free Agent Randy Bullock’s name might sound like it belongs in a different kind of film, but his career as an NFL kicker has been notable, even if not always stellar.
4. Prince Tega Wanogho - Kansas City Chiefs Born in Nigeria and initially aiming for a basketball career, Wanogho transitioned to football, bringing with him a name that reflects his royal stature on the offensive line.
Instagram | eagles.world | Prince Tega Wanogho's name mirrors his commanding presence on the offensive line.
5. JuJu Smith-Schuster - New England Patriots JuJu is not just a name; it’s a brand. This wide receiver’s unique name has made him a fan favorite and a social media sensation.
6. Ogbonnia Okoronkwo - Cleveland Browns Thankfully, his nickname "Obo" makes it easier for fans and commentators alike to cheer him on without tripping over his name.
7. Rock Ya-Sin - Baltimore Ravens Abdurrahman ibn Ramadan Ya-Sin, or Rock Ya-Sin as he’s known on the field, has a name that rocks just as hard as his game.
8. Equanimeous St. Brown - Chicago Bears His name sounds more like a philosopher or a poet, but Equanimeous St. Brown is making a name for himself as a wide receiver in the NFL.
9. Ndamukong Suh - Free Agent A powerhouse on the defensive line, Ndamukong Suh’s name is as formidable as his presence on the field.
10. Haha Clinton-Dix - Free Agent Nicknamed Haha, Clinton-Dix’s name often brings smiles, but his play on the field is no laughing matter.
11. CeeDee Lamb - Dallas Cowboys CeeDee might be short for Cedarian, but this wide receiver’s nickname has become synonymous with his dynamic playstyle.
12. Tuanigamanuolepola Tagovailoa - Miami Dolphins Simply known as Tua, this quarterback is not just known for his potential but also for having one of the most complex names in NFL history.
These names not only make the NFL more colorful but also provide endless entertainment for fans and commentators alike. From the alliteration of Richie Incognito to the poetic nature of Equanimeous St. Brown, these names ensure that the NFL remains a place of fun and intrigue, both on and off the field.
The "strangest NFL names" have certainly left their mark, making the league richer with each unique name that comes along. Whether it’s during a game or long after retirement, these players and their names will continue to be remembered.
