Last Updated on November 4, 2026 by Tanos Potter
Ahmed Hassanein is an Egyptian-American professional football player who plays defensive end for the Detroit Lions in the National Football League (NFL). Born on July 9, 2002, in Anaheim, California, Hassanein spent much of his childhood in Cairo, Egypt, before returning to the United States to pursue his football career.
Beyond his historic achievement as the first player of Egyptian heritage selected in the NFL Draft, Hassanein has a remarkable family story. He is married to Payson, whom he met during his college years at Boise State University. His father, Hassanein Mahdy Hassanein, played a central role in raising him, while his older half-brother, Cory Besch, introduced him to American football.
Hassanein also has two older sisters, Gigi and Aziza Ibrahim, and a younger brother named Ibrahim. His family’s influence has been essential to his journey from Egypt to professional football.
Here is everything publicly known about Ahmed Hassanein’s wife, children, parents and siblings.
Ahmed Hassanein’s Wife: Who Is Payson?
Ahmed Hassanein is married to a woman named Payson, whom he met while attending Boise State University in Idaho.
Their relationship attracted widespread attention on April 26, 2025, when Hassanein proposed to her shortly after being selected by the Detroit Lions in the 2025 NFL Draft.
According to People magazine, Hassanein surprised Payson with an engagement ring during a celebration attended by relatives and friends.
The romantic moment occurred shortly after he received confirmation that Detroit had selected him in the sixth round with the 196th overall pick.
Photographs and videos shared by ESPN and Boise State Football showed Hassanein kneeling in front of Payson while presenting the ring.
Payson accepted his proposal, and the couple celebrated with family members and friends.
The proposal made an already memorable day even more significant for Hassanein, who had just fulfilled his dream of reaching the NFL.
When Did Ahmed Hassanein Get Married?
Ahmed Hassanein and Payson married in July 2025, approximately three months after their engagement.
According to a June 21, 2026, interview published by The Detroit News, the wedding took place at a family farm belonging to Payson’s parents in Hailey, Idaho.
The couple chose a relatively small ceremony attended by close relatives and friends.
The wedding occurred shortly before Hassanein reported to his first NFL training camp with the Detroit Lions.
In a July 2025 interview with A to Z Sports, Hassanein discussed the challenges of balancing his wedding celebrations with the beginning of his professional football career.
He revealed that he had married shortly before returning to Detroit for training camp, leaving the newlyweds with very little time for a honeymoon.
Hassanein explained that the couple managed to spend only about one day celebrating privately before his NFL responsibilities required him to travel.
They subsequently made plans for a delayed honeymoon.
Who Is Payson Hassanein?
Payson is publicly known as the wife of Detroit Lions defensive end Ahmed Hassanein.
The couple met during Hassanein’s college years at Boise State University, although the exact date they began dating has not been reliably documented.
According to The Detroit News, Payson’s parents own a farm in Hailey, Idaho, where the couple celebrated their wedding.
Despite her husband’s growing popularity in professional football, Payson has maintained a relatively private personal life.
Reliable public reporting provides limited information about her full maiden name, age, education and professional occupation.
However, her relationship with Hassanein is well documented through their April 2025 engagement and July 2025 marriage.
Ahmed Hassanein’s Children: Does He Have Any Kids?
As of now, Ahmed Hassanein has no publicly confirmed children.
Although he married Payson in July 2025, reliable public reporting has not established that the couple has welcomed a son or daughter.
Neither his official Detroit Lions biography nor the available interviews identifies any children of his own.
Hassanein has publicly discussed his wife, parents and siblings, but he has not made a widely documented announcement confirming that he has become a father.
Consequently, there is insufficient verified information to determine whether the couple currently has children.
Ahmed Hassanein’s Parents: His Egyptian Family Background
Ahmed Hassanein was born in Southern California but spent much of his childhood in Egypt.
When he was approximately six years old, he moved to Cairo with his father, where he remained until his teenage years.
His upbringing included time in an apartment outside central Cairo and at the family’s farm, where he helped care for animals.
In interviews, Hassanein has discussed both the difficulties of his childhood and the important influence of his father.
His parents’ relationship and his experiences growing up helped shape his independence, resilience and determination to succeed.
Ahmed Hassanein’s Father: Who Is Hassanein Mahdy Hassanein?
Ahmed Hassanein’s father is Hassanein Mahdy Hassanein, whose name has also appeared in English-language reporting as Hassenein Mahdy Hassenein.
He is an Egyptian businessman who previously operated an international textile business.
According to a June 2026 interview conducted by John Niyo of The Detroit News, Ahmed’s father spent part of his professional career working in Southern California before raising his son in Egypt.
He later returned to Cairo, where Ahmed spent much of his childhood.
During those years, the family divided its time between an apartment and a farm outside the city.
Ahmed helped care for animals, including cattle, goats and chickens.
His father played a particularly important role because Ahmed experienced periods of separation from his mother during childhood.
Although their family experienced difficulties, Ahmed has expressed appreciation for his father’s efforts to raise and support him.
Ahmed Hassanein’s Father Supported His Move to America
One of the most important decisions in Ahmed Hassanein’s life came when his older half-brother, Cory Besch, visited Egypt.
At the time, Ahmed was approximately 15 or 16 years old and had developed considerable physical strength through CrossFit.
Cory recognized his younger brother’s athletic potential and suggested that he move to California to attend high school and learn American football.
Ahmed’s father agreed to the arrangement, allowing his son to pursue opportunities in the United States.
The decision changed the direction of Hassanein’s life.
Although Ahmed initially struggled with English and had no experience playing American football, he eventually earned a college scholarship to Boise State.
His father continued following his progress from Egypt.
Ahmed Hassanein Wants His Father to Watch Him Play in the NFL
In June 2026, Hassanein spoke emotionally about his desire for his father to attend one of his NFL games.
At the time, his father was living in Egypt and had never watched him play American football in person.
According to The Detroit News, travel visa difficulties had prevented his father from visiting the United States.
Hassanein explained that bringing his father to an NFL game would be one of the most meaningful experiences of his professional career.
His father also expressed pride in Ahmed’s achievements, describing him as a determined person who worked tirelessly toward his goals.
Although he had not grown up watching American football, the elder Hassanein began studying NFL rules, defensive formations and the Detroit Lions.
By 2026, he was regularly following the team’s performances and discussing football with his son.
He also hoped to meet Ahmed’s wife, Payson, in person.
Because of travel difficulties, he had been unable to attend their July 2025 wedding in Idaho.
Instead, he participated through a video call, wearing a suit for the occasion.
Ahmed later described the experience as emotional because his father had missed several important milestones in his life.
Ahmed Hassanein’s Mother: Who Is His Mom?
Ahmed Hassanein has discussed his mother in several interviews, although her full name has not been reliably established through the public sources reviewed.
His mother lived in the United States during part of his childhood, while Ahmed spent many years in Egypt with his father.
In a March 2025 interview with Windy City Gridiron, Hassanein explained that he experienced periods of separation from his mother while growing up.
He described his early family circumstances as challenging and said he often found emotional support through sports.
Participating in boxing, wrestling, jujitsu and CrossFit helped him develop discipline and connect with other young athletes.
These activities eventually became important outlets during difficult periods of his childhood.
Although Hassanein has spoken about his mother’s influence on his early life, reliable sources provide limited information about her current circumstances, occupation or relationship with him.
He has generally chosen not to discuss certain private family experiences in extensive detail.
Ahmed Hassanein’s Siblings: Does He Have Brothers or Sisters?
Ahmed Hassanein has four publicly identified siblings: two older sisters, Gigi Ibrahim and Aziza Ibrahim; an older half-brother, Cory Besch; and a younger brother named Ibrahim.
His siblings played important roles in his childhood and development, particularly when he moved from Egypt to the United States.
According to a June 2026 report from The Detroit News, his older sisters encouraged him to return to America to complete his education.
Meanwhile, Cory Besch helped introduce him to American football and provided him with a home in California.
Cory Besch: Ahmed Hassanein’s Older Half-Brother
Cory Besch is Ahmed Hassanein’s older half-brother and one of the most influential people in his football journey.
Besch previously played college football at Azusa Pacific University before pursuing opportunities to play professionally in Europe.
He spent time playing semi-professional football in Austria and later worked as an English teacher and football coach at Loara High School in Anaheim, California.
According to a 2025 CNN report, Besch visited Egypt after completing a football season in Austria.
During the visit, he reconnected with Ahmed after spending approximately ten years apart.
Besch noticed that his younger brother had become a strong and athletic teenager through CrossFit.
He believed Ahmed could develop into a successful American football player despite having no experience with the sport.
Besch subsequently convinced the family to allow Ahmed to move to California.
In the United States, Ahmed lived with Cory and his family while attending Loara High School.
Besch became a mentor, helping him learn English, understand American culture and develop his football skills.
Their relationship became an important foundation for Ahmed’s eventual success.
How Cory Besch Helped Ahmed Hassanein Reach the NFL
When Ahmed first arrived in California, he knew very little about American football.
He did not understand the rules, positions or professional football system.
Besch introduced him to the fundamentals of the sport and explained the steps required to earn a college football scholarship.
Ahmed began watching videos of professional defensive players, particularly Aaron Donald, to study techniques used by elite pass rushers.
He eventually joined the Loara High School football program and developed into a promising defensive lineman.
Besch continued mentoring him throughout the recruiting process.
In December 2020, Ahmed committed to Boise State University, fulfilling one of the early goals that his brother had encouraged him to pursue.
In interviews with CNN, Besch expressed pride in Ahmed’s determination and personal growth.
Their relationship demonstrates the important role family mentorship played in his transition from Egypt to American football.
Gigi Ibrahim: Ahmed Hassanein’s Older Sister
Gigi Ibrahim is one of Ahmed Hassanein’s older sisters. She is an Egyptian-American journalist and activist who gained international recognition during the Egyptian Revolution of 2011.
Gigi became known for documenting political demonstrations and communicating developments through social media and international news outlets.
She was among the prominent young activists associated with the protests that helped bring worldwide attention to Egypt’s political situation.
According to The Detroit News, Gigi also played an important role in encouraging Ahmed to return to the United States during his teenage years.
She believed that continuing his education in America could provide him with greater opportunities for personal and professional development.
Her encouragement, together with that of their sister Aziza and brother Cory, contributed to the decision that eventually led Ahmed to pursue football.
Aziza Ibrahim: Ahmed Hassanein’s Other Older Sister
Aziza Ibrahim is Ahmed Hassanein’s other publicly identified older sister.
Like Gigi, she was involved in discussions about Ahmed’s future when he was living in Egypt.
According to The Detroit News, the two sisters believed their younger brother would benefit from returning to the United States to complete his education.
Their encouragement helped create the opportunity for Ahmed to reconnect with Cory Besch and begin playing American football.
Although Aziza’s relationship with her brother is publicly documented, reliable sources provide limited information about her occupation, educational background and personal life.
Ibrahim: Ahmed Hassanein’s Younger Brother
Ahmed Hassanein also has a younger brother named Ibrahim.
According to the June 2026 interview published by The Detroit News, Ibrahim was living in Egypt with their father at the time.
While Ahmed was building his football career in the United States, his younger brother remained part of the family’s household in Egypt.
However, Ibrahim’s full name, age, education and professional activities have not been reliably established through available reporting.
His relationship with Ahmed is confirmed, but he has generally remained outside the public spotlight.
How Ahmed Hassanein’s Family Influenced His Football Career
Ahmed Hassanein’s journey to the NFL was shaped by family decisions that took him between two countries.
Born in California, he spent much of his childhood in Cairo, where American football was not a familiar sport.
He participated in several sports, including boxing, swimming, wrestling and CrossFit.
His dedication to CrossFit helped him become one of Egypt’s leading competitors in his age group.
However, his older brother recognized that his physical strength and determination could translate into success on an American football field.
After moving to California, Ahmed attended Loara High School and began playing football as a teenager.
He initially struggled with the game’s rules and terminology but improved through consistent practice.
His physical abilities and determination eventually attracted interest from college football programs.
In December 2020, he committed to Boise State University, where he developed into one of the country’s leading defensive linemen.
Ahmed Hassanein’s College Career at Boise State
Ahmed Hassanein played college football for the Boise State Broncos from 2021 through 2024.
He initially contributed as a reserve defensive player before earning a larger role.
During the 2023 season, Hassanein emerged as one of the Mountain West Conference’s most productive pass rushers.
He recorded 53 tackles, 17 tackles for loss and 12.5 sacks, earning First-Team All-Mountain West recognition.
His performances helped establish him as a potential NFL prospect.
In 2024, he became a team captain and continued playing an important role in Boise State’s defense.
He recorded 48 tackles, 16 tackles for loss and 9.5 sacks.
Hassanein again earned First-Team All-Mountain West honors and was named a finalist for the Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year Award.
The recognition reflected his leadership, academic achievements and community involvement.
Across four college seasons, he recorded 24 sacks and 35 tackles for loss.
His success represented a remarkable achievement for a player who had never participated in organized American football before moving to California.
Ahmed Hassanein Made NFL History With the Detroit Lions
On April 26, 2025, the Detroit Lions selected Ahmed Hassanein in the sixth round of the NFL Draft with the 196th overall pick.
He became the first player of Egyptian heritage selected in NFL Draft history.
The moment attracted international attention, particularly in Egypt, where his achievement represented a milestone for the country’s involvement in American football.
His selection was also emotional because of the years of training, relocation and personal challenges that had preceded it.
During his telephone conversation with Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell, Hassanein expressed his determination to give everything he had to the team.
Shortly afterward, he proposed to Payson, creating another memorable family milestone.
His rookie year was affected by a pectoral injury, but he continued his development with Detroit.
As of now, Hassanein remains with the Lions, wearing jersey number 99.
His professional career continues to reflect the support of his wife, father and siblings, who played important roles in helping him reach the NFL.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ahmed Hassanein’s Family
Who is Ahmed Hassanein’s wife?
Ahmed Hassanein’s wife is Payson. The couple met during his college years at Boise State University and married in July 2025.
When did Ahmed Hassanein get married?
Ahmed Hassanein married Payson in July 2025 during a small wedding ceremony held at her parents’ farm in Hailey, Idaho.
When did Ahmed Hassanein propose to his girlfriend?
He proposed to Payson on April 26, 2025, shortly after being selected by the Detroit Lions in the NFL Draft.
Does Ahmed Hassanein have children?
As of now, Ahmed Hassanein has no publicly confirmed children.
Who is Ahmed Hassanein’s father?
Ahmed Hassanein’s father is Hassanein Mahdy Hassanein, an Egyptian businessman who previously operated an international textile business.
Who is Ahmed Hassanein’s mother?
Ahmed Hassanein has discussed his mother in interviews, but her full name has not been reliably established in public reporting.
How many siblings does Ahmed Hassanein have?
Ahmed Hassanein has four publicly identified siblings: Gigi Ibrahim, Aziza Ibrahim, Cory Besch and a younger brother named Ibrahim.
Who is Cory Besch?
Cory Besch is Ahmed Hassanein’s older half-brother. He is a former football player, teacher and coach who helped Ahmed move from Egypt to California and introduced him to American football.
Who is Gigi Ibrahim?
Gigi Ibrahim is Ahmed Hassanein’s older sister. She is an Egyptian-American journalist and activist who became internationally known during the 2011 Egyptian Revolution.
Where was Ahmed Hassanein born?
Ahmed Hassanein was born in Anaheim, California, on July 9, 2002, but grew up primarily in Cairo, Egypt.
How old is Ahmed Hassanein?
Ahmed Hassanein is 24 years old as of now.
What NFL team does Ahmed Hassanein play for?
As of now, Ahmed Hassanein plays defensive end for the Detroit Lions. He was selected by the franchise in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
Tanos Potter is a sports journalist and NFL analyst dedicated to bringing fans closer to the gridiron through deep tactical analysis and roster coverage. He breaks down offensive and defensive schemes, quarterback performance, trade moves, and top Draft prospects. Tracking action across both the AFC and NFC, Tanos translates complex playbooks and statistics into engaging, actionable insights for football enthusiasts.
