The roar of Cairo traffic filtered through the evening air as Ahmed Hassanein sat on his balcony seven years ago, sharing a hookah with his half-brother Cory Besch. That night, a casual conversation would spark an improbable journey, one that would ultimately lead to NFL history. Today, Hassanein stands as the first Egyptian ever selected in the NFL Draft, his selection by the Detroit Lions marking a watershed moment not just for him, but for an entire nation’s sporting aspirations.
Born in the United States but raised in Egypt, Hassanein’s path to professional football defies conventional wisdom. He spent a decade in Africa before returning to the States in 2018, arriving with limited English skills and no football experience. The sport that would become his passion was as foreign to him as the American culture he was just beginning to navigate. Yet within this stranger-than-fiction tale lies a testament to human potential and the power of unwavering determination.
At Boise State, Hassanein transformed from a raw prospect into a defensive force. His career statistics tell a story of rapid evolution: 24 career sacks, ranking fourth in program history. But numbers alone can’t capture the magnitude of his achievement. Consider that most elite pass rushers have been honing their craft since grade school, while Hassanein didn’t take his first snap until 2019.
The 6-foot-4 edge rusher’s senior season proved particularly revelatory. As team captain, he emerged as one of the few FBS defensive linemen to record more than 15 tackles for loss in consecutive seasons. His explosive first step and relentless motor caught the attention of NFL scouts, who saw in Hassanein not just what he was, but what he could become.
What makes Hassanein’s story particularly compelling is the cultural bridge he represents. In a sport that has historically drawn primarily from American talent pools, his success opens new pathways for international athletes. The Egyptian Federation of American Football, established just a decade ago, now has a standard-bearer who proves that dreams of reaching the NFL’s pinnacle aren’t limited by geography or background.
Leadership emerged as a defining characteristic of Hassanein’s collegiate career. His selection as team captain in 2024 spoke volumes about his impact beyond the stat sheet. Teammates and coaches alike praised his work ethic, citing his journey from football novice to defensive anchor as an inspiration in the locker room.
The technical aspects of Hassanein’s game developed at an astonishing rate. In defensive coordinator Erik Chinander’s 4-2 scheme, he excelled as a five-technique defensive end, showcasing versatility that NFL teams covet. His 9.5 sacks in 2024 demonstrated not just natural ability, but a sophisticated understanding of pass-rushing techniques that typically takes years to develop.
The Detroit Lions‘ selection of Hassanein in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft represents more than just another pick – it’s a watershed moment in international football development. As the first Egyptian ever selected in the NFL Draft, Hassanein carries the hopes of countless young athletes who previously might have considered the NFL an impossible dream.
“I will die on that field for you coach”
Ahmed Hassanein’s reaction to getting drafted is everything! pic.twitter.com/Aa2oug6uDG
— LionsFanReport (@lionsfanreport) April 26, 2025
The significance of his achievement resonates far beyond American football circles. In Egypt, where soccer has long reigned supreme, Hassanein’s success has sparked newfound interest in American football. Youth programs are experiencing increased enrollment, with many young athletes citing Hassanein’s journey as their inspiration. His story has become a powerful reminder that traditional pathways aren’t the only routes to success.
For the Lions, Hassanein represents the type of high-upside prospect that successful organizations covet in the later rounds. His rapid development at Boise State suggests his ceiling remains undefined, while his demonstrated work ethic provides confidence that he’ll maximize whatever potential remains untapped. In a league where edge rushers are increasingly valuable, Hassanein’s combination of size, athleticism, and determination makes him an intriguing addition to Detroit’s defensive front.
The next chapter of Hassanein’s story is just beginning. The transition from college to professional football challenges even the most seasoned prospects, but if his past is any indication, Hassanein will approach this new challenge with the same determination that carried him from Cairo to the NFL. His journey reminds us that sometimes the most impressive achievements come from the most unexpected places.
For a young man who once sat on a Cairo balcony dreaming of possibilities, Ahmed Hassanein has already achieved something remarkable. He’s shown that with enough courage and determination, even the most improbable dreams can become reality. As he takes his place in NFL history, his story serves as an inspiration not just for Egyptian athletes, but for dreamers everywhere who dare to pursue seemingly impossible goals.