The Chargers on Friday signed wide receiver Praise Olatoke, a former sprinter at Ohio State who is part of the NFL’s International Pathway Program. Olatoke, who was born in Nigeria and raised in Scotland, played club football while also competing on the Buckeyes’ track and field team.
Olatoke ran 10.27 seconds for 100 meters during the 2022 outdoor season, earning first team All-Big Ten honors. He joins defensive lineman CJ Okoye as the Chargers’ members of the International Pathway Program. The Chargers signed Okoye, a native of Nigeria, as a free agent in May 2023.
The NFL, through the International Pathway Program, has sought to broaden its reach internationally to give athletes outside the United States an opportunity to learn more about football and to improve their skills with a chance to earn a roster spot and establish a role with one of the league’s 32 teams.
In addition, the Chargers signed veteran safety Tony Jefferson, adding depth beyond expected starters Derwin James Jr. and Alohi Gilman.
Jefferson, 32, last played in the NFL with the New York Giants in 2022. He also has played with the Arizona Cardinals, Baltimore Ravens and San Francisco 49ers.
