Dieter Eiselen

Dieter Johann Eiselen (born June 10, 1996) is a South African professional American football guard. He played college football for the Yale Bulldogs. Eiselen was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Chicago Bears after the 2020 NFL draft and became the first South African non-kicker to be active in an NFL game his rookie year.

Early life Eiselen was born and raised in South Africa where he played rugby union and competed in Olympic weightlifting. Eiselen came to the United States and played football at Choate Rosemary Hall in Wallingford, Connecticut and helped lead the Wild Boars to an undefeated season and a New England NEPSAC 'A' Championship. Eiselen was selected to participate in the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl in Pasadena, California at the Rose Bowl. He was also inducted into National Football Foundation's Hampshire Honor Society.

Professional career

Chicago Bears Eiselen was signed by the Chicago Bears as an undrafted free agent on May 7, 2020. He was elevated to the active roster on November 7, 2020 and became the first South African non-kicker to be active in an NFL game. On January 11, 2021, Eiselen signed a reserve/reserve/futures contract with the Bears. He signed a reserve/future contract with the Bears on January 11, 2022. Eiselen was promoted to the active roster on October 26. On February 22, 2023, Eiselen was tendered as an exclusive rights free agent.

Houston Texans On August 31, 2023, Eiselen was signed by the Houston Texans. He was promoted to the active roster on November 11.

On February 24, 2024, Eiselen signed a two-year contract extension. On August 26, he was waived by the Texans.

Denver Broncos On October 8, 2024, Eiselen was signed to the Denver Broncos. On October 19, the Broncos released him.

San Francisco 49ers On October 23, 2024, Eiselen was signed to the San Francisco 49ers. He was released on November 7.

Jacksonville Jaguars On November 12, 2024, Eiselen was signed to the Jacksonville Jaguars. He signed a reserve/future contract with Jacksonville on January 6, 2025. On March 28, Eiselen was waived by the Jaguars.