Japanese kicker Hiroshi Matsuzawa has signed with the Las Vegas Raiders as an undrafted free agent [1, 2].
If successful, Matsuzawa will become the first Japanese player to ever appear in an NFL game [1, 4]. His progress represents a potential breakthrough for American football's reach in Japan, a country with a growing interest in the sport.
Matsuzawa, also known as “Tokyo Toe,” signed his contract in April 2026 [3, 5]. He was 27 years old at the time of the signing [6]. He currently wears jersey number 38 [7] while training at the Raiders' camp in Nevada.
The kicker is currently preparing for three scheduled preseason games [1]. A broadcast of a preseason game is set for Aug. 21, 2026, at 8:45 JST [5]. These early contests serve as the primary evaluation period for players fighting for a spot on the final roster.
Matsuzawa is competing for a position on the active roster before the regular season begins in September 2026 [5, 6]. The path for undrafted free agents is typically narrow, as they must outperform established veterans or draft picks to secure one of the limited spots on the 53-man roster [7].
His training in Nevada focuses on the precision and power required for NFL-level field goals. The Raiders' coaching staff will monitor his performance throughout the August preseason window to determine if he can provide the necessary stability at the kicker position.
“Matsuzawa aims to become the first Japanese player to appear in an NFL game.”
Matsuzawa's pursuit of an NFL roster spot is a significant milestone for international athlete recruitment. While the NFL has seen players from various global backgrounds, a Japanese national appearing in a game would mark a historic shift in the league's demographic reach. His success or failure in the preseason will likely influence how NFL scouts view the Japanese market for specialized positions like kicking.
