In a moment that resonated deeply with fans and coaches alike, Ahmed Hassanein, the Detroit Lions’ sixth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, delivered an unforgettable message of commitment and passion to head coach Dan Campbell. Just moments after being selected, Hassanein said, “Coach, I will die for you. I just want you to believe in me. I will die on that field for you guys. I promise I would.” That statement instantly went viral, drawing admiration from across the football community.
Hassanein’s journey to the NFL is as inspiring as his words. Born in California and raised in Egypt, Hassanein didn’t start playing football until he was 15 years old—an unusually late age to begin a path toward the pros. Despite this, he quickly developed into a dominant defensive player. His perseverance and raw talent earned him a spot at Boise State University, where he made a significant impact with 22 sacks and over 30 tackles for loss in his final two seasons.
Detroit Lions general manager Brad Holmes praised the pick, citing Hassanein’s “relentless motor” and exceptional growth in a short amount of time. “He’s still developing, and that’s the exciting part,” Holmes said. “There’s no telling how high his ceiling could be.”
Aside from football, Hassanein’s character and humility also shined through on draft day. Surrounded by family and friends, he proposed to his longtime girlfriend, Payson, shortly after getting the call from Detroit. The heartwarming moment further endeared him to Lions fans, symbolizing not just a professional milestone but a deeply personal one as well.
Hassanein’s arrival in Detroit marks more than just the addition of a promising defensive lineman. It symbolizes resilience, gratitude, and a burning desire to prove himself on the biggest stage. For the Lions, a franchise on the rise under Dan Campbell’s gritty leadership, Hassanein appears to be the perfect cultural fit.
As the team gears up for the 2025 season, all eyes will be on this passionate young man from Egypt who is ready to give everything he has to the game—and to the city of Detroit. His journey is just beginning, but his heart has already won over the Motor City.
