With legends from all over, the NFL is home to some of the most unique names in sports. Whether the name is well-known, 20 syllables long or sound like a bad joke, there are so many that are unforgettable. These names may make you do a double take or leave you scratching your head, but it's important to appreciate them, even if they may not be the biggest names in NFL history.
Ha Ha Clinton-Dix—Yeah, this is real.
For obvious pun-filled reasons, Ha Ha Clinton-Dix is one of the most memorable and interesting names in NFL history. Born Ha’Sean Treshon Clinton-Dix (but going by the much funnier “Ha Ha”), he was drafted in the first round by the Green Bay Packers in 2014. He made his rounds, playing for Washington, Chicago and Dallas before retiring in 2022. While his name may sound like a bad joke, his game was no laughing matter. He was a Pro Bowler and second-team All-Pro in 2016, proving he was all business on the field, even if his name suggested otherwise.
Hercules Mata'afa—A name fit for a hero.
You have to admit, lining up against a guy named Hercules sounds pretty intimidating. His name sounds like Hercules and Mufasa teamed up to make the ultimate football warrior. His time in the NFL didn’t quite live up to the name, but in college, he was a force to be reckoned with. He played defense for Washington State and was a standout name in the Pac-12. He even received the Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year before signing with the Minnesota Vikings in 2018.
Tevita Tuliʻakiʻono Tuipulotu Mosese Vaʻhae Fehoko Faletau Vea—Bless you.
Try saying that three times fast, or better yet, try spelling it. Instead of learning Rap God, this is a great alternative for sports fans. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle blessed us with a nickname—Vita Vea—which is much easier to chant when he’s squashing offensive lineman. He was drafted in the first round in 2018 and helped the Bucs win Super Bowl LV. He plays like an absolute wrecking ball and will hopefully have a career as long as his name.
Byron Pringle—Because who doesn't love Pringles?
If there's ever been an NFL player destined for a snack sponsorship, it's this guy. Pringle is a wide receiver out of Kansas State. Even though he was undrafted, he worked his way to a Super Bowl with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2020. He stacks up yards like chips in a tube, which is all the more reason it’d be a fumble for Pringles to not offer him a deal.
Carlester Crumpler—No, that's not a WWE wrestler.
Crumpler played in the NFL from 1995-2000 where he impressed fans with his physicality. He was a fullback and crumpled his opponents like a sheet of paper, laying out some seriously crushing blocks. Crumpler cleared paths for his teammates and made sure to play his part on the field. During his time in the NFL, he played for the Atlanta Falcons and, later, the Tennessee Titans. He may not be a household name like some of the other stars from that era, but his unique name ensures his football legacy.
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