Ahmed Hassanein’s journey to the NFL is a story of grit, perseverance, and unbreakable passion. After being drafted by the Detroit Lions in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, the Egyptian-born defensive end made headlines with his deeply emotional response during his first call with head coach Dan Campbell.
When Hassanein picked up the phone and heard Campbell’s voice, emotions took over. Fighting back tears, he told the coach, “Coach, I will die for you. I just want you to believe in me. I just wanted you to believe in me, coach. I’ll die on that field for you. I promise I will.” Those powerful words quickly went viral across social media, resonating with fans who admired his raw passion and commitment.
Hassanein’s comments didn’t stop with that heartfelt call. During his introductory press conference with the Lions, he again emphasized his loyalty and work ethic. “My heart is pounding,” Hassanein said. “I’ll die for that guy [Campbell]. I’ll do anything for this team. All I ever wanted was a chance.” His sincerity captured the spirit that Detroit’s coaching staff and front office consistently seek in players: toughness, heart, and dedication.
For Hassanein, the NFL dream seemed almost impossible just a few years ago. Born in California but raised in Cairo from age six, he grew up excelling in boxing, wrestling, judo, and CrossFit—sports that built his physical and mental toughness. It wasn’t until he moved back to California as a teenager that he even discovered football. Despite starting late and facing the challenge of adapting to a new culture and language, Hassanein attacked the sport with relentless determination.
His hard work paid off with a scholarship to Boise State University, where he quickly made a name for himself as an aggressive, high-motor defensive player. Over his final two collegiate seasons, he racked up 22 sacks and 32 tackles for loss, becoming one of the most disruptive players in the Mountain West Conference.
Still, despite his production, many scouts saw Hassanein as a “project” due to his unconventional path to football. That only fueled his fire. When the Lions drafted him, it wasn’t just a professional milestone—it was validation for years of struggle, sacrifice, and belief.
Head coach Dan Campbell and General Manager Brad Holmes praised Hassanein’s mindset. Campbell, in particular, values players who love football and are willing to give everything for their teammates. Hassanein’s emotional reaction confirmed they made the right choice. “This guy plays like every down might be his last,” Campbell said. “That’s what we want here.”
Detroit fans have already embraced Hassanein, admiring his passion and the authenticity of his story. He represents the kind of underdog spirit that resonates in a blue-collar city like Detroit.
As Ahmed Hassanein steps onto the field at Ford Field, he’ll carry with him the hopes of not just Lions fans, but also countless people from Egypt and beyond who now see him as a symbol of what hard work and heart can achieve. And judging by his emotional words, one thing is clear—he won’t be taking a single moment for granted.
