(NEWARK, NJ) -- Mayor Ras J. Baraka and the City of Newark honored National Football League Defensive End and city native Al-Quadin Muhammad by presenting him with the "Key to the City" at a Prudential Center ceremony on Friday, July 12, 2024.

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.

"Al-quadin Muhammad is a Newark native who has distinguished himself across the nation as an NFL star," said Mayor Baraka. "Here at home, his luster is no less brilliant as a supporter of our youth and the greater community. 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. It is a pleasure to recognize his achievements today by presenting him with the Key to the City. As an embodiment of our city motto, Al-quadin is Newark and Proud of it!"

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.

"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," said Mr. Muhammad. "So, being able to come home and receive the Key to the City means more than any award I've ever received."

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. The end of the Key to the City of Newark is shaped like a map of the municipality.