Jeffrey M’Ba poised for historic NFL Draft selection, potentially first Gabonese player
via Gabon Review2 min read
Franco-Gabonese defensive player Jeffrey M’Ba, 26, is on the cusp of a significant career milestone as he eyes the 2026 NFL Draft, scheduled for April 23-27 in Pittsburgh, USA. M’Ba could become only the second Frenchman drafted into the NFL and, notably, the first Gabonese player to achieve this feat. Despite the extremely low probability of being drafted, with only 1.6% of eligible players selected annually, M’Ba is determined to hear his name called by an NFL franchise. Born in Libreville in 1999, M’Ba moved to France at age four and discovered American football later in life. His impressive physique, standing at 1.97 meters and weighing 143 kilograms, quickly drew attention. After winning a French championship, he pursued opportunities in the United States. His journey included academic hurdles that led him back to France in 2020, but he persevered, attending a junior college in Kansas before progressing to top university programs like Auburn and Purdue. He currently plays for the SMU Mustangs in the Atlantic Coast Conference ACC, where he recorded 42 tackles and five sacks in the 2024 season. His performance earned him an invitation to the Senior Bowl, a key showcase for NFL prospects. M’Ba stated to The Draft Network, "I am ready to prove that I am the player that every NFL team needs." He remains focused despite fierce competition, adding, "I just want my name to be called. No matter who calls me, I will be there." To date, Richard Tardits, drafted in 1989, is the only
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