Akbar Gbaja-Biamila

Akbar Gbaja-Biamila is a television personality, former NFL player, author, and philanthropist whose career spans professional sports, broadcasting, and community engagement. Gbaja-Biamila played five years in the NFL as a linebacker and defensive end with the Oakland Raiders, San Diego Chargers, and Miami Dolphins. He went undrafted in the NFL draft and later signed with the Oakland Raiders as a free agent. During his playing career, Gbaja-Biamila participated in the NFL's Broadcast Boot Camp, a program designed to prepare athletes for careers in broadcasting and journalism. He played college football at San Diego State University, graduating with a degree in communications and new media studies, and completed a certified entrepreneurship program at the Wharton School of Business.

After retiring from professional football, Gbaja-Biamila transitioned into broadcasting, serving as a fantasy football expert and analyst for NFL Network on programs such as "NFL Fantasy Live." His television profile expanded when he became a color commentator alongside Matt Iseman for "American Ninja Warrior," which has aired on G4, Esquire Network, and NBC. Gbaja-Biamila is the co-host of NBC's Emmy-nominated obstacle course competition series "American Ninja Warrior." He also co-hosts "Team Ninja Warrior" on Esquire Network and "American Ninja Warrior Junior" on Universal Kids. Gbaja-Biamila's presence on "American Ninja Warrior" has been recognized in popular culture, including a parody on Saturday Night Live by Drake.

Gbaja-Biamila's media work extends to serving as an analyst for NFL Network, co-hosting the morning show "Good Morning Football" and its syndicated extension "Good Morning Football: Overtime." He was also a co-host of "The Talk" on CBS. Gbaja-Biamila is a published author with the book "Everyone Can Be a Ninja: Find Your Inner Warrior and Achieve Your Dreams," and served as executive producer for the film "Sylvie's Love." He has appeared on TODAY, Rachael Ray, Entertainment Tonight, Access Hollywood, and Extra!.

In addition to his media and sports career, Gbaja-Biamila is active in philanthropy. He founded Rush The Passer, a year-round athletic, academic, and life skills program for youth in Southern California. After his father was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, Gbaja-Biamila became involved with several charitable organizations, including serving on the board of the Michael J. Fox Foundation, which supports Parkinson's research. He is also a board member for the Asomugha Foundation, which focuses on educational opportunities. Gbaja-Biamila's work in sports broadcasting, NFL analysis, and community service highlights his commitment to both media and philanthropy.