First Kenyan NFL Player Daniel Adongo Deported From the US

Daniel Adongo, the first Kenyan to play in the National Football League (NFL), has been deported from the United States after overstaying his visa and accumulating a criminal record that made him subject to the country's stricter immigration laws.

Adongo, 37, made history in 2013 when he signed with the Indianapolis Colts after switching from rugby to American football. His achievement was widely celebrated in Kenya and inspired many young athletes. 

However, his NFL career ended in 2015 after two seasons. He remained in the United States after his visa expired in 2016 and later faced several legal problems. Court records show he was convicted of criminal mischief in 2020 and was also arrested on charges including intimidation, battery and disorderly conduct. 

A Department of Justice judge ordered his removal in March, and he was deported from Chicago in June. Adongo was detained under the Laken Riley Act, a law introduced in early 2025 under President Donald Trump that strengthened immigration enforcement. 

The legislation requires the detention without bond of non-citizens with certain criminal convictions and allows states to challenge federal immigration enforcement decisions. It also expanded the range of offences that can lead to mandatory detention, including theft, burglary, assault and crimes causing serious injury. Adongo's case reflects the wider application of the law to non-citizens with qualifying criminal records, regardless of their public profile.

His deportation has prompted discussion in Kenya, where former rugby international Ken Thimba commented on the challenges of moving from rugby to American football. Thimba, whose son Joshua Weru was recently drafted into the NFL, said rugby players often have the physical attributes needed for the sport but must also master complex systems and technical skills. 

He described the transition as comparable to learning a new language and suggested Adongo struggled with the pressure and expectations of playing in the NFL. Athletics coach Haron Lagat called for greater support for athletes who encounter difficulties while competing abroad. He said coaches have a responsibility to ensure athletes are treated fairly when they face legal or personal challenges.