LOS ANGELES — CJ Okoye had never played football before 2022. Now, the 21-year-old defensive lineman is fighting for a roster spot with the Los Angeles Chargers.

From Nigeria, Okoye got the opportunity through the NFL's International Pathway Program. Founded in 2017, the program is meant to provide athletes from around the world the opportunity to earn a roster spot on an NFL roster and increase the number of international players in the league.