OWINGS MILLS, Md. -- After last season's breakout year, Baltimore Ravens defensive tackle Justin Madubuike received a new contract and new-found inspiration to change his first name.
Madubuike has decided to go with his Nigerian-given name, Nnamdi. His nameplate above his locker was changed to Nnamdi Madubuike this week.
"Coming from Nigerian culture, our parents give us like an American name and give us a Nigerian name," Madubuike told the Ravens' website. "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.