Chris Banjo

Chris Banjo's Biography

Born on February 26th, 1990, Ayokunmi Christopher Oluwaseun Banjo is a former American football safety known for his spectacular skill on the field. Having spent a decade playing in the National Football League (NFL), Banjo’s playing career is marked by undeniable resilience and a deep-seated love for the game. He is currently making his mark as an assistant special teams coach for the Denver Broncos and continues to welcome each new day as a stepping-stone to greatness.

Banjo’s parents, Nigerian immigrants, raised him in Houston, Texas. Transitioning from Nigeria to Houston, his parents instilled in him the importance of hard work and determination. His Nigerian roots are deeply embedded in his life; his middle name, Oluwaseun, signifies “We thank God” in Yoruba, a prevalent Nigerian language, and it serves as a constant reminder of his origins and the importance of gratitude in his life.

Banjo began his college football career in 2008 at Southern Methodist University (SMU). He stood out in his team, the SMU Mustangs, and played diligently for four years until 2011. However, despite his consistent performance on the pitch, Banjo went undrafted in the 2012 NFL Draft.

His journey to the NFL began when he was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Jacksonville Jaguars in April 2013. Unfortunately, Banjo’s time with them was short-lived, as he was released in July the same year. But, Banjo’s fortune didn’t end there.

Within a few days, Green Bay Packers signed him, validating Banjo’s resilience and his belief in his ability. Although there were bumps along the road- he was released and signed back to the practice squad the following day in August 2014- Banjo made his way back to the active roster by December that year. He consistently proved his worth, leading his team in special teams tackles in the 2015 season. His hard work earned him a playoff captain position, solidifying his standing in the team.

In March 2016, Green Bay renewed his contract, only for it to be hindered by Banjo’s placement on injured reserve in October of that year due to an injury. After reaching an injury settlement, he was waived off by the Packers.

Later, in November 2016, Banjo bounced back, signing with the New Orleans Saints. He inked a two-year extension in 2017 and a three-year contract extension in 2019 with the Saints, indicating the team’s confidence in his skills. Despite finalizing another contract extension, he was released from the team in August 2019.

Banjo found a new home with the Arizona Cardinals, signing with them in late September 2019. Despite running into another hurdle when he was placed in the reserve/COVID-19 list in 2020, Banjo returned to the field in January 2021. The Cardinals had their faith in Banjo, and he continued his playing stint with them until August 2021, before being released and reassigned to the practice squad. Eventually, he was promoted back to the active roster in October the same year. Stern and redoubtable, Banjo bounced back each time, determined to leave his mark on the field.

Banjo announced his retirement from the NFL on his 33rd birthday in 2023, after a ten-season stretch marked by unshakeable determination and commendable resilience. His retirement marked the end of a successful playing career, but not the end of his NFL involvement. The Denver Broncos saw great potential in Banjo, appointing him as an assistant special teams coach in February 2023. The Broncos offered Banjo a chance to mentor and coach under the guidance of new head coach Sean Payton. He gladly stepped into this opportunity, looking forward to sharing his profound sports knowledge and experiences with aspiring players.

Despite his rollercoaster career, Ayokunmi Christopher Oluwaseun Banjo stood out as an exceptional sportsman in American Football. His life’s motto, ingrained in his Nigerian name, serves as a testament to his steadfast victories over the odds. As he embarks on his coaching journey, Banjo continues to chase his passion with the same vigor and zeal, always ready to thank God for each opportunity.