Ayanbadejo also played for the Baltimore Ravens (1999–2002), Miami Dolphins (2002–2003), Arizona Cardinals 2004–2007), and Chicago Bears (2007) of the NFL, as well as the California Redwoods (2009) of the UFL.

Ayanbadejo was born in Chicago, Illinois to a Nigerian father and an American mother of Irish descent.

Following his collegiate career at San Diego State, Ayanbadejo was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Vikings.

That fall he resumed his Viking career where he spent time on both the practice squad and active roster.

In March 2004 Ayanbadejo signed a three-year deal with the Arizona Cardinals where he was reunited with head coach Dennis Green.

He appeared in all but three games over that three year time period and was voted NFL player representative by his teammates.

After playing out that contract, the Cardinals re-signed Obafemi Ayanbadejo to a two-year extension, though he was cut three months later.

Ayanbadejo signed with the Chicago Bears in 2007, becoming professional teammates with his younger brother, Brendon, for the third time in their careers.