Dieter Eiselen

BIOGRAPHY

Born on June 10, 1996, Dieter Johann Eiselen is a South African professional American football guard establishing himself in a sport generally dominated by Americans. His journey from playing college football at Yale University to breaking barriers in the NFL is a testament to his extraordinary talent, relentless drive, and unyielding determination.

Eiselen’s athletic career started in his native South Africa, where he honed his skills on the rugby pitch, challenging his grit and mettle. As if rugby was not demanding enough, he also graced the competitive platform of Olympic weightlifting, further demonstrating his raw strength. However, destiny had a different plan for Eiselen.

In pursuit of broader horizons, he moved to the United States, attending Choate Rosemary Hall, an independant school nestled in the town of Wallingford, Connecticut. There, he traded the egg-shaped rugby ball for the distinct leather oval of American football, a sport he soon excelled in. His on-field efforts led the school’s team, the Wild Boars, to an undefeated season and a coveted New England NEPSAC ‘A’ Championship. Beyond the gridiron, Eiselen showcased his versatility by earning letters in track & field and academic prowess which led him to make the Dean’s list.

His subsequent academic and athletic journey led him to Yale University, from where he graduated in 2020, securing degrees in both economics and political science. During his tenure as an indomitable four-year starter for the Yale Bulldogs, Eiselen started 34 games, displaying both longevity and consistency. His stellar on-field performances didn’t go unnoticed. He amassed numerous accolades including a HERO Sports Sophomore All-American title and an All-Ivy League honorable mention in 2017. His contribution proved pivotal in securing an outright Ivy League Championship for the Bulldogs that same year.

The succeeding years only enhanced his gleaming football resume. In 2018, Eiselen rose to prominence as a First-Team All-Ivy League pick, an honor bestowed upon only the most outstanding performers. 2019 bore witness to his name being included on a slew of prestigious teams, including Phil Steele’s Preseason All-American team, ECAC All-New England team, STATS FCS All-American team, and AP FCS All-American team. Capping off a successful year, he helped Yale earn a respectable No. 23/22 national ranking and a second Ivy League championship. Proving his metallic worth on-field, he was selected to participate in the renowned NFLPA Collegiate Bowl held at the iconic Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California. Not to forget, he was also inducted into the prestigious National Football Foundation’s Hampshire Honor Society, a tribute to his excellence on and off the field.

Following his remarkable stint at Yale, Eiselen entered the 2020 NFL draft. Though he went undrafted, the Chicago Bears saw potential in this South African guard and signed him as a free agent on May 7, 2020. Later that year, Eiselen inked his name in history, becoming the first non-kicker South African to be actively involved in an NFL game. He continued his journey with the Bears, extending his contract in 2021 and 2022 and continuously proving his worth.

However, 2023 marked a shift in his career. Moving away from the Windy City, Eiselen was signed by the Houston Texans on August 31, 2023. He quickly ascended to the active roster, reinforcing their offensive line. His commitment and stellar performance on the field earned him a two-year contract extension in 2024, securing his position in American football and anchoring his legacy as a trailblazer from South Africa.