When it comes to naming the best-dressed players in the NFL, many fans and fashion enthusiasts might mention big names like Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts, New York Giants quarterback Tyrod Taylor, or Baltimore Ravens receiver Odell Beckham Jr. However, a lesser-known player is rapidly emerging as a fashion icon both on and off the field: Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, linebacker for the Cleveland Browns. He’s making waves with his distinctive, culturally inspired style that celebrates his African heritage.
Threads of Heritage: Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah’s Cultural Expression
Born in 1999 in Hampton, Virginia, to a Ghanaian father and an American mother, Owusu-Koramoah has made it his mission to express his identity through fashion. While his upbringing was deeply rooted in Christianity and spiritual discipline, he chose to explore and embrace his Ghanaian heritage as he grew older. This journey of cultural discovery has led the linebacker to incorporate African influences into his wardrobe, making a bold statement about both fashion and identity.
During his rookie season in 2021, Owusu-Koramoah kept his pregame outfits relatively simple, opting for fur-lined coats, all-black ensembles, sweatsuits, and sneakers—stylish, but not particularly distinctive. However, by the 2022 season, fans began to notice a shift. His wardrobe started to reflect a more intentional embrace of his Ghanaian roots and broader African culture. He began wearing Sankofa neckwear, Ghanaian-influenced sneakers, kaftans, kufis, and kente cloth—a traditional Ghanaian fabric rich in cultural significance. Each of these elements told a story of heritage and pride, allowing him to stand out in a league filled with fashion-forward athletes.
Woven Narratives: The Symbolism in Owusu-Koramoah’s Wardrobe
For the 2024 season, Owusu-Koramoah has elevated his cultural expression by donning a new African-inspired outfit for every game. These ensembles, often styled through collaborations, feature intricate details and symbolic meanings. From Gye Nyame symbols, representing the presence of God, to Tuareg-inspired garments from Mauritania, each piece conveys a deeper narrative about identity, spirituality, and tradition.
Owusu-Koramoah’s wardrobe choices extend beyond aesthetics; they serve as powerful statements. The linebacker is dedicated to using his platform as an NFL player to highlight the richness and diversity of African culture. Through fashion, he aims to inspire others to embrace their heritage and identity, just as he has. Also, he has acknowledged that growing up in America, he wasn’t always exposed to the depth of his Ghanaian heritage, but as he matured, he actively sought knowledge and mentorship to learn more about his roots. This journey of cultural self-discovery has become a central part of who he is today.
One of the most striking aspects of Owusu-Koramoah’s fashion choices is the attention to symbolism. For instance, the use of red in one of his outfits represents intense emotion, a color of significant meaning for the Ghanaian people. A head wrap he wore during another game, common across various African cultures, symbolized unity and connection. The garments he selects, whether from Ghana, Mauritania, Mali, or Nigeria, are not just about style—they honor the traditions and histories of the continent.
Style with Purpose: Owusu-Koramoah’s Statement on Identity and Culture
Owusu-Koramoah’s fashion choices also pay homage to royalty and power. Many of the garments he wears are traditionally reserved for high-status individuals, such as kings and figures of authority. By incorporating these elements into his wardrobe, the linebacker makes a bold statement about the significance of African culture and its rightful place on the global stage. He understands that, as an NFL player, he has a unique platform to showcase this pride, and he is using it to its fullest potential.
Fashion in African cultures has long served as a means to communicate social status, family background, and spirituality. Owusu-Koramoah’s choices reflect this rich tradition. His use of kente cloth, for instance, is deeply tied to concepts of royalty and leadership in Ghana. Each color in kente carries its own meaning—gold for royalty, purple for femininity and healing, red for spiritual significance, and blue for peace and harmony. By wearing kente and other traditional African garments, Owusu-Koramoah makes a powerful statement about his heritage and the identity he represents.
Attitude Meets Aesthetics: Owusu-Koramoah’s Fashion Philosophy
Beyond cultural significance, Owusu-Koramoah pulls off these looks with undeniable style. His mature appearance, combined with his carefully curated outfits, positions him as one of the best-dressed players in the league. Fans have taken notice, with many praising his bold choices on social media.
At the core of Owusu-Koramoah’s fashion journey is a deep belief in the importance of identity. He emphasizes that knowing where you come from and embracing who you are is essential to success in life. By proudly wearing his culture on and off the field, he hopes to inspire others to do the same. Through his clothing, his performance, and his philosophy, Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah demonstrates that embracing one’s heritage is a powerful way to make a lasting impact.
Check out more of Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah NFL style…
For the latest in fashion, lifestyle, and culture, follow us on Instagram @StyleRave_
—Read Also
