Football Star Gets ‘Key To City’ In Newark; Al-Quadin Muhammad Honored

NEWARK, NJ — Al-Quadin Muhammad has brought some serious hometown pride to New Jersey’s largest city over the years with his success on the football field as a defensive end in the NFL. But the Brick City native means much more to Newark than football – he’s also a role model and mentor who deserves a huge round of applause.

That’s how Newark officials described Muhammad when they presented him with a ceremonial “key to the city” last week.

“Receiving this award is everything to me because Newark is what made me, and the people of Newark have supported me all the way up to this point,” Muhammad said. “So, being able to come home and receive the key to the city means more than any award I’ve ever received.”

According to a statement from the office of Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, Muhammad has racked up nearly a decade of on-the-field success:

“An eight-year NFL veteran, Mr. Muhammad was born and raised in Newark, the son of Vailsburg High track star and later teacher Michelle Epps. He began playing football in Newark Pop Warner. He played at the University of Miami on a full scholarship, and was drafted in 2017 by the Saints in the sixth round. He played for them in 2017, the Indianapolis Colts from 2018 to 2021, and the Chicago Bears in 2022. He re-joined the Colts in 2023.”

However, it’s his contributions to his home city that have really set Muhammad apart, city officials added:

“Throughout his NFL career, Mr. Muhammad has returned regularly to Newark to organize community camps and mentor and advise city youth. He serves as President of the Liz Foundation, which focuses on helping Newark’s opportunity youth. Additionally, Mr. Muhammad is known as a local entrepreneur and real estate investor.”

According to Baraka’s office, the key to the city is Newark’s highest honor. The concept dates back to ancient Rome, when cities were walled and keys represented the power to unlock the gates. Bestowing the key to a city was a significant gesture that signaled the high esteem in which the recipient was held. While cities are no longer fortresses, the tradition and honor has continued.

Baraka said the football star has distinguished himself across the nation – and in Newark as well.

“Here at home, his luster is no less brilliant as a supporter of our youth and the greater community,” the mayor said. “He is a role model, a mentor, and an exemplar of Newarkers’ tendency to leverage our talents, gifts and skills into professions and leaderships roles that uplift others.”

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com. Learn more about advertising on Patch here. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site. Don’t forget to visit the Patch Newark Facebook page.