Massive Mural in Arklow Celebrates NFL Fan Recognition

An Arklow man’s lifelong passion for American football has earned him international recognition after being named the Green Bay Packers’ nominee for the 2026 NFL International Fan of the Year award.

Stephen O’Brien has been selected as one of 32 nominees put forward by NFL teams worldwide, with the overall winner set to be announced during Draft Week in Pittsburgh next year.

A devoted supporter of the Green Bay Packers for decades, O’Brien has played a central role in building and connecting the team’s fanbase across Ireland and the UK. In 2013, he founded the UK and Irish Packers Fan Club, which has since grown into the largest Packers supporters’ organisation outside the United States.

What began as a small community of like-minded fans has developed into a network of thousands who gather for watch parties, live events and social meet-ups celebrating all things Packers. O’Brien also hosts the UK Packers Podcast, further strengthening the sense of connection among supporters on this side of the Atlantic.

One of his most notable initiatives has been organising annual supporter trips to Lambeau Field, giving Irish and UK fans the opportunity to experience a game day in Green Bay firsthand which is something many had only dreamed of.

As the Packers’ official nominee, O’Brien will travel to the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh, where he will receive two tickets to the exclusive Packers Inner Circle experience, attend VIP events and take to the stage to announce one of the team’s draft selections.

To mark the achievement, the Packers commissioned a striking 8-by-8 metre mural in O’Brien’s hometown of Arklow. The large-scale artwork was created by local artist Stephen Considine, known professionally as “Conso”, who completed the piece in less than a week despite challenging weather conditions.

Considine, an Arklow-based graffiti artist and muralist, is widely recognised for his vibrant public artworks across Wicklow, including projects at St. Mary’s College and the Bridgewater Shopping Centre. A mental health advocate, he also founded BiPolar Bear Wear, an initiative promoting emotional wellbeing through art and design.

The mural not only celebrates O’Brien’s nomination but also highlights Arklow’s unique connection to the Packers. It features Daniel Whelan, the team’s Wicklow-born punter, creating a shared tribute to two local figures linked to the NFL franchise.

The Packers have been steadily strengthening their ties with Ireland in recent years. In March 2025, the franchise secured official NFL marketing rights in Ireland, alongside the Kansas City Chiefs, allowing them to host events, fan engagement activities and development initiatives across the country.

In September 2025, the Packers staged their first “Huddle” fan event in Dublin, welcoming supporters to a special gathering that included former running back Ryan Grant. Whelan also returned home in February 2026 as part of ongoing outreach efforts.

Irish representation within the organisation continues to grow. Alongside Whelan’s role as punter, Dubliner Mark McNamee joined the practice squad as a kicker in 2025.

While the NFL has confirmed there will be no regular-season game in Dublin in 2026, the Packers’ expanding presence demonstrates a clear commitment to building a strong and lasting fanbase in Ireland.