Jamaican athlete Roje Stona earns invites to Green Bay Packers and New Orleans Saints rookie mini camps

Jamaican shot putter and discus thrower Roje Stona has made strides toward a potential professional football career in the NFL after receiving invitations to attend rookie mini camps hosted by both the Green Bay Packers and the New Orleans Saints.

Standing at an imposing 6 feet 6 inches and weighing 270 pounds, Stona aims to transition into the role of defensive end despite lacking any prior competitive football experience.

Described in a scouting report by NFL analyst Lance Zierlein as possessing an "NFL body type and traits," Stona's background as a track standout has highlighted his explosive athleticism and physical attributes. With experience in discus and shot put throwing, Stona boasts impressive hip explosiveness, above-average core strength, long arms, and sizable hands.

Agility and athleticism

While Stona's pro day showcased his agility and athleticism, demonstrating potential in running and jumping drills, his inexperience in football-specific skills such as running routes and catching passes may present challenges. However, the report suggests that Stona's commitment and potential as an undrafted free agent make him a prospect worth considering for development, particularly at the tight end position.

Despite his football aspirations, Stona's recent athletic achievements in track and field are noteworthy. In April, he achieved the qualifying standard for the men's discus throw at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, setting a new personal best of 69.05 meters at the Oklahoma Throws Series World Invitational meet. Additionally, Stona's performance at the 2023 World Athletics Championships in Budapest saw him finish 9th in the men's discus event with a throw of 62.57 meters.

As Stona embarks on this new chapter in his athletic journey, his dual talents in track and football have garnered attention, with the potential for an exciting future in professional sports.