Ilona Maher stiff arms her opponent to the ground at the Olympic Games.Ilona Maher stiff arms her opponent (Photo via Olympics)
NFL fans want female American rugby star Ilona Maher in the league after watching her toss an opponent to the ground like a lightweight with an insane truck move.

Maher is currently representing Team USA at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France, and was in action against Japan this Sunday. She’s gone viral on social media for a particular run that is reminiscent of some of the best running backs in NFL history, with one fan referring to her as the “Derrick Henry of women’s rugby.”

Check her out in the video below:

As noted above, fans are urging an NFL team to sign her up.

 

“Literally “the Power of She” the more I rewatch this. Where you at @Athleta ? This woman needs to be in your athlete collective, stat,” a user wrote.

“TRUCK STICK” said another.

“Team USA we need more,” a third wrote.

“Have I watched this clip 20 times already? Maybe,” said another.

“Can’t wait see the tik tok edits lol,” one joked.

Ilona Maher Is Making A Case For Herself At The Olympic Games

Who knows? She might get some calls, but she wouldn’t be the first woman to attract NFL interest. Former USWNT star Carly Lloyd recently revealed having been contacted by multiple franchises before her retirement.

Maher began playing rugby at 17 years old and is participating in the Olympic Games for the first time.

While her impressive run isn’t likely to land her in the NFL, it’s still fun to consider the possibilities.