Justin Madubuike Changes His Name, Will Go By Birthname Nnamdi Going Forward

Baltimore Ravens defensive tackle Justin Madubuike, who burst onto the scene last season and scored a massive contract in the off-season, decided to honor his roots and go by his birth name, Nnamdi, for the 2024 season and beyond. Madubuike, who is of Nigerian descent, explained his decision to Ravens.com earlier in the week.

“Coming from Nigerian culture, our parents give us like an American name and give us a Nigerian name. When we were growing up as little kids, they addressed us as our Nigerian name.  So, Nnamdi, I believe in my heart that’s my real name.”

“I just was like, you know, I’m going to go with my real name. So Nnamdi is my real name.”

Madubuike is the second Ravens player to go by their birth name since entering the NFL. Odafe Oweh, a DE on Baltimore, made the switch from Jayson after his third season in the league. Madubuike commented that seeing a veteran on his team make the switch inspired him to do the same.

“Just learning from the older vets and stuff, I keep finding ways to get better every single year. I just started to just keep everything real in terms of my life. After I signed my contract, I just need to keep doing that. I just felt like when I keep it real, the better player I am, the better man I am.”

The Ravens began their season on Thursday night in a last-second loss to the Kansas City Chiefs 27-20. Madubuike recorded two tackles and a half sack, while Oweh contributed with four tackles, including three solo. Baltimore finished the 2024 season with the best record in the AFC but lost at home to the Chiefs in the AFC Championship game. The Ravens hope a revamped offensive unit and a veteran defense can lead them to the Super Bowl.