World Cup News: Packers Fans Have a New Freeman to Cheer On

Here in Iowa, sports loyalties can be all over the map. Unlike states that have their own NFL, NBA, or MLB teams, Iowans often adopt teams from neighboring states. That's why you'll find Green Bay Packers fans (my dad) sitting next to Minnesota Vikings fans (my mom), Chicago Bears fans (my sister), Kansas City Chiefs fans (my pastor), and even the occasional Denver Broncos fan on any given Sunday. In my case, I'm the Broncos fan. That's just how it works around here. I call it the old "pick and stick," because no real fan wants to be a "team jumper." But I digress...

For Packers fans, there's a new Freeman making headlines. The difference? His name's not Antonio. He's not wearing a helmet or shoulder pads. He's not aiming for a Lombardi trophy. Instead, he's wearing shin guards and representing the United States on soccer's biggest stage: the World Cup.

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Alex Freeman, one of the breakout stars for the U.S. Men's National Team, has soccer in his blood, but football is part of his family story. He's the son of Antonio Freeman, the former Green Bay Packers wide receiver who helped the Packers win Super Bowl XXXI and became a fan favorite in Green Bay during the 1990s. I'm pretty sure I got his rookie card boxed up somewhere.

Credit: Jamie Squire / Getty Images | Alex Freeman #16 of the United States celebrates with teammates after scoring his team's second goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group D match between USA and Australia at Seattle Stadium on June 19, 2026 in Seattle, Washington.

While many expect sons to follow in their father's footsteps, especially with pro-pedigree, Alex had other ideas. Growing up, he played several sports but eventually discovered what he called a "secret love for soccer," after his step-father introduced him tot he sport. Turns out, choosing the soccer over the football may have been the right decision.

Credit: Alex Grimm/Getty Images | Alex Freeman #16 of the United States heads to score the team's second goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group D match between USA and Australia at Seattle Stadium on June 19, 2026 in Seattle, Washington.

Freeman's rise has been impressive. After developing through Orlando City's academy system and establishing himself in Major League Soccer, he made a bold move earlier this year when he transferred to Spanish club Villarreal in La Liga. Some analysts questioned whether leaving a guaranteed starting role in Orlando during a World Cup year was too risky. A lack of playing time in Spain could have hurt his chances of making the U.S. World Cup squad. Instead, Freeman answered those questions on the field.

He earned his place on the United States roster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, becoming the first Orlando City academy product to reach the tournament. In the Americans' opening match, he assisted Giovanni Reyna in a convincing victory over Paraguay. A few days later, Freeman scored his first competitive international goal, helping the United States defeat Australia and advance to the knockout rounds.

What makes Freeman so exciting is his style of play. As a fullback playing at Right Center back for the US in a back three, he's not there to simply defend. He uses his speed, athleticism, and attacking instincts to create scoring chances while still being a strong presence on the back line. At 21 years old, he's already showing the kind of versatility and confidence that coaches love. Not to mention, he's already put his head to good use on both ends of the soccer pitch.

So, Packers fans, while you wait for football season to return, here's another Freeman worth cheering for. Even better, you don't have to be a Packers fan to do some cheering of your own, since he plays for the good ole' USA. He may not be catching touchdowns at Lambeau Field like his dad did, but he's making a name for himself on the international soccer stage. And for a state like Iowa, where sports fans adopt teams and players from all over the country, here's a story everyone can appreciate.