The Global Influence of NFL Fandom

Among the most celebrated attackers in the game, Kane stands out not only for his athletic prowess but also for his fervent support of the New England Patriots.

Kane’s admiration for the Patriots blossomed during the Tom Brady era, as he resonated with the former quarterback’s transformation from an obscure player to a champion. He attended the Patriots’ Super Bowl victory against the LA Rams in 2019 and has expressed aspirations of pursuing a career as an NFL kicker in the future.

Yedlin, a prominent sporting figure from Seattle, has enjoyed a diverse career spanning both the U.S. and Europe. Born and raised in Seattle, the seasoned full back of the U.S. Men’s National Team has previously served as the Seahawks’ “12th man,” raising the flag at Lumen Field, the shared venue for both the Sounders and Seahawks.

Naeher, who grew up in Connecticut, straddled the line between New England and New York sports fandom. A dedicated Patriots supporter, the former No. 1 goalkeeper for the U.S. Women’s National Team received a heartfelt message from the legendary Tom Brady during her retirement broadcast in 2024, marking a special connection with one of the greatest athletes in the world.

Morris, another notable figure from Seattle, is a World Cup veteran with deep ties to the Seahawks. As the all-time leading scorer for the Sounders, he has often reflected on how the electric atmosphere at Lumen Field fueled his determination to excel for his hometown club, where he has continued to shine since his debut with the USMNT.

Naeher was not alone in representing the Patriots among her USWNT peers over the years. Sam and Kristie Mewis, both lifelong Boston sports fans from Massachusetts, have also fostered a bond with Naeher over their mutual admiration for the Patriots, remaining connected to the team despite their professional endeavors.

This diverse array of supporters serves as a testament to the NFL’s expanding influence. In August, the Seahawks introduced two Bundesliga players as “12s Everywhere” ambassadors. German international Kleindienst, a Borussia Monchengladbach player, became a fan during his teenage years, while Müller, a goalkeeper for FC Heidenheim, has been a devoted supporter for over a decade.

The Bosnian goalkeeper, who has played for clubs such as Chelsea, Bournemouth, Stoke, and Everton, spent part of his childhood in Canada, which made him familiar with North American sports. He proudly identifies as one of the Patriots’ most ardent fans, frequently expressing his admiration for the team and declaring Brady as “the Greatest QB to have ever played the game, no doubt about it.”