Wicklow native has signed a deal with NFL Giants the Green Bay Packers.
The Enniskerry, who is a punter by trade, will compete with longtime Packers star Ben O’Donnell for the starting position this season.
This is Whelan's second crack at the big time in the NFL having spent a short period with the New Orleans Saints last year.
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He was ultimately released by the Saints after losing out to Blake Gillikin for the starter's position, and spent a year in the Dwayne Johnson owned XFL with the DC Defenders.
Decked out in Packers gear, Whelan shared a photo on Instagram which appeared to show him signing his contract for the NFC North outfit.
"All glory to God! It’s official! Thank you @packers for the opportunity #gopackgo," wrote Whelan on Instagram.
Whelan joins the Packers at a time of great change for the organisation, with longtime star quarter-back Aaron Rodgers departing for the greener pastures of New Jersey in the offseason.
Should Whelan take to the field for the packers in the NFL, he will end a 38-year wait for an Irishman to play in the NFL. The most recent Irish NFL star was Neil O'Donoghue, who played for 8 years in the league and has the honour of being the tallest kicker in NFL history at 6 foot 6.
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