The NFL is home to some of the craziest, most unique nicknames on the planet. Sometimes the story behind the name is just as interesting. Many nicknames come and go, some fly under the radar, but there are many that become a players’ official title. Let's take a look at some of the most comical nicknames in the NFL.
Tommy “Cutlets” Devito
This nickname doesn’t have a crazy story. Just a guy who really likes his mom’s chicken cutlets. The New York Giants walk-on from New Jersey earned this name when he admitted that living with his parents was a “no-brainer.” In an interview with ESPN, in 2023, DeVito stated that he loves not having to worry about laundry or what he’s going to eat for dinner. “Chicken cutlets and all that is waiting for me when I get there,” DeVito said. Silly nickname aside, DeVito led the Giants to some surprising success after a couple of rough seasons, making him a fan favorite.
George Karlaftis: “Furious George”
George Karlaftis, who is a defensive end for the Kansas City Chiefs, has one of the greatest nicknames in the NFL. He was deemed “Furious George” during his high school days for his intense gameplay. Before attending Purdue, Karlaftis spent the majority of his life playing water polo, but eventually put on the football helmet and now has two Super Bowl rings. The way he relentlessly pursues the ball earned him his nickname, and it didn’t take long for “Furious George” to be known throughout the NFL.
John Sherman “JuJu” Smith-Schuster
After beginning his football journey at eight years old, JuJu’s nickname can be traced back to his roots. The nickname “JuJu” was given to him by his aunt and it’s stuck since then. In 2012, he decided to officially switch his name in the football program listings from John to JuJu. This was the beginning of building his brand on the field. JuJu took a step further and legally changed his last name from Smith to Smith-Schuster while in college. He did this to honor his stepfather and is now one of the most notable wide receivers for the Kansas City Chiefs. He won his first Super Bowl ring in 2023, making it clear that his name is one to remember.
Tyshun Raequan “Deebo” Samuel
Born Tyshun Raequan Samuel, Deebo is (now) a wide receiver for the Washington Commanders. His nickname was given to him by his father. He dubbed him Deebo after the notorious bully from the 1995 film Friday. His father says that even as a kid, Samuel had the tendency to take what he wanted, even if someone else had it. This carried over to his adult life, and now he’s a force to be reckoned with on the football field. Deebo traded crayons and toys for footballs and is a nightmare to play against.
Tyrann Devine Mathieu: “The Honey Badger”
Mathieu became well-known with his tenacious gameplay while at LSU. This was also the time where he earned the title of The Honey Badger. Mathieu was known for taking on any player that stood in his way, no matter their size. Though he didn't abide by “pick on someone your own size,” that wasn't the only thing that encouraged this nickname. He supports a signature blond patch of hair on top of his head that slightly resembles the blond fur that can be seen on the back of a honey badger. Despite his smaller 5’9 stature, just like his honey badger counterpart, he never backs down from a challenge.
Edited by Taylor N. Hall
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