Jude McAtamney Bio
Jude McAtamney is a professional American football placekicker from Northern Ireland. He currently plays for the New York Giants of the National Football League (NFL). Originally a Gaelic footballer, he later transitioned to American football and played at the collegiate level for the Chowan Hawks and Rutgers Scarlet Knights. McAtamney signed with the Giants as an undrafted free agent in 2024, marking the beginning of his professional career in the NFL.
Early Life and Background
Jude McAtamney was born on May 9, 2000, in Derry, Northern Ireland. He grew up in the village of Swatragh, where he played Gaelic football alongside his six brothers. His grandfather, Harry Cassidy, was a notable Gaelic footballer and manager, which influenced McAtamney’s early involvement in sports. He played for the under-20 football team of Derry GAA, contributing to their victory in the Ulster Under-20 Football Championship in 2018. McAtamney attended St Patrick’s College, Maghera, where he began to develop his athletic skills further.
Path to American Football
In May 2020, Jude McAtamney became interested in American football after seeing Irish punter David Shanahan accept a scholarship to play for the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets. Inspired, McAtamney purchased equipment online and began practicing at a local Gaelic football field. He recorded his kicking and reached out to Shanahan, who referred him to ProKick Australia, a program designed to develop college football punters and placekickers. Although COVID-19 restrictions initially prevented him from traveling to Australia, he eventually trained in the U.S. with Tom Hackett and Shanahan in early 2021. After several months of training, McAtamney was able to consistently make 50-yard field goals and even surpassed 60 yards by June 2021.
Jude McAtamney Career
Early Career (2021–2023)
Jude McAtamney received a scholarship to play for the Chowan Hawks in North Carolina in July 2021. During his first season, he appeared in nine games, successfully making 6-of-10 field goal attempts and converting all 47 extra point attempts. After one season, he entered the NCAA transfer portal and trained with ProKick Australia during the off-season. He ultimately transferred to the Rutgers Scarlet Knights, where he won the starting placekicker role. In his first season with Rutgers, McAtamney made 12-of-18 field goals and 23-of-24 extra points, becoming the team’s leading scorer with 59 points.
Breakthrough (2024)
After a successful collegiate career, Jude McAtamney impressed scouts during his pro day. He was invited to try out for the New York Giants, where he made all 10 of his attempted kicks. Although he was not selected in the 2024 NFL Draft, he signed with the Giants as an undrafted free agent. McAtamney was assigned to the team’s exempt/international roster spot as part of the International Player Pathway Program. He made his NFL debut on November 3, 2024, against the Washington Commanders, where he successfully kicked an extra point and a 31-yard field goal.
Notable Works and Milestones
McAtamney’s journey from Gaelic football to the NFL is a testament to his dedication and skill. His ability to adapt and excel in American football has made him a notable player in the league. Despite facing challenges, including being waived and re-signed by the Giants, McAtamney continues to demonstrate his potential as a professional athlete.
Jude McAtamney Award Nominations
Throughout his early career, Jude McAtamney has been recognized for his achievements in American football, particularly during his time in college. His performance at Rutgers and Chowan has set a strong foundation for his professional journey.
Jude McAtamney Awards Won
As of now, Jude McAtamney has not yet received any major awards in his professional career. However, his accomplishments in college football have been noteworthy and have contributed to his current standing in the NFL.
Jude McAtamney Family
Information regarding Jude McAtamney’s family is limited. He is known to have six brothers, and his grandfather was a significant figure in Gaelic football.
Personal Life
Details about Jude McAtamney’s personal life, including his marital status and children, are not publicly available. His focus remains on his professional career and development as an athlete.