Game changers can be seen all over the league, let's see who is leaving and who is coming back to their team in 2024, after ranking in the Top 20 last year. Let's jump right in.

20. Tim Haenni – DT  Then: Helvetic Guards, Now: Helvetic Mercenaries:

Tim Hänni, the giant defensive tackle from Köniz, Switzerland, returns to his hometown franchise, now known as the Helvetic Mercenaries, for the upcoming season after an exceptional season with the Guards in 2023. Despite the team "rebranding", Hänni's commitment to excellence remains unwavering. Ranked 20th in the ELF Top 100, Hänni has firmly established himself as one of Europe's premier defensive tackles. In the previous season, he demonstrated his prowess by earning a spot on the All-Star Second Team, showcasing his exceptional skills and impact on the field.

Staying home: Tim Hänni stays in Switzerland. © Rico Doninelli

With impressive statistics from the last season, including 47 tackles, 2.5 sacks, 13.5 tackles for loss, 1 forced fumble, and 1 fumble recovery, Hänni is poised to continue his stellar performance and lead the Helvetic Mercenaries to success in the upcoming season.

19. JR Tavai – DE Then: Helvetic Guards, Now: Free Agent:

J. R. Tavai, the seasoned outside linebacker, known for his power on the field, remains a free agent despite his impactful performance with the Helvetic Guards last season. Alongside Tim Haenni, he formed a dominant duo at the line of scrimmage, contributing significantly to the team's success. Ranked 19th in the ELF Top 100, Tavai's impressive stats from the previous season speak volumes about his skill and contribution to the game. With 61 tackles, 6 sacks, 12.5 tackles for loss, 4 forced fumbles, and 1 fumble recovery, he showcased his versatility and playmaking ability on the field.

Still available: JR Tavai could join the ELF later in the season. © Fiona Noever

While his future team remains uncertain, Tavai's experience, versatility, and deep understanding of the game make him a sought-after asset for any team looking to bolster their defense.

18. Niklas Gustav – DE Then: Raiders Tirol, Now: Raiders Tirol:        

Niklas Gustav, renowned for his adaptability at Defensive End and Long Snapper roles, embarks on his third ELF season with the Raiders Tirol, continuing his quest to dominate quarterbacks. Since joining the Raiders Tirol in 2022, he has maintained his exceptional performance, securing ELF All-Star Second Team honors and the esteemed Raider Award.

Last season, Gustav showcased his prowess with 54 tackles, 10.5 sacks, 15.5 tackles for loss, and 3 forced fumbles, solidifying his status as a defensive powerhouse.

17. Solomon Brown – OLB Then: Wrocław Panthers, Now: Free Agent:

Solomon Brown, recognized for his ferocity and expertise as an outside linebacker, secured the 17th spot in the ELF Top 100 rankings. Last season, he showcased his skills while playing for the Wrocław Panthers, tallying impressive stats of 75 tackles, 5.5 sacks, 11 tackles for loss, 1 interception, 8 pass break-ups, 2 forced fumbles, and 1 fumble recovery.

Solomon Brown had a brilliant 2023 season in Poland. © Łukasz Skwiot

Despite his remarkable performance, Brown currently finds himself as a free agent, awaiting his next opportunity to impact the gridiron. With his wealth of experience and relentless dedication to the game, Brown remains a coveted asset for any team seeking defensive experience and leadership on the field.

16. Anthony Mahoungou – WR Then: Rhein Fire, Now: Paris Musketeers:

Anthony Mahoungou, a standout Wide Receiver, secured the 16th spot in the ELF Top 100 rankings. Last season, he played a pivotal role in Rhein Fire's success, contributing 60 receptions, 984 receiving yards, and 11 touchdowns. Now, the native of Paris, France, returns to his homeland to represent the Paris Musketeers.

Heading home: Anthony Mahoungou is joining the Paris Musketeers in 2024. © Justin Derondeau

Mahoungou's journey from Flash de La Courneuve to Purdue University and then to professional football showcases his talent and determination. With his proven ability to make game-changing plays, Mahoungou is set to continue his touchdown quest and make a significant impact for the Paris Musketeers in the upcoming season.

15. Alejandro Fernandez – OLB Then: Rhine Fire, Now: Madrid Bravos:

Alejandro Fernández continues to make his mark in the league. After playing a key role in Rhein Fire's championship win last season, Fernández returned to his homeland to represent the newly established franchise, the Madrid Bravos. Known for his tenacity and skill on the field, Fernández's journey from Osos Rivas to various teams across Europe highlights his dedication to the sport.

The "Iceman" is going hunting in Madrid. © Justin Derondeau

With impressive stats, including 36 tackles, 11 sacks, 18.5 tackles for loss, and a Pick Six in the previous season, Fernández is poised to make a significant impact for the Madrid Bravos in the upcoming season.

14. Evans Yeboah – DT Then: Hamburg Sea Devils, Now: Munich Ravens:

Ranked 14th in the ELF Top 100, Evans Yeboah continues to establish himself as a force to be reckoned with on the defensive line. Following impressive seasons with the Hamburg Sea Devils, Yeboah has made the move to the Munich Ravens. Joining his former defensive coordinator Kendral Ellison, now the head coach of the Ravens, Yeboah brings his exceptional talent and experience to the team.

Following defensive coordinator Kendral Ellison. Evans Yeboah is coming to Munich. © Jonas Wicker

Known for his outstanding performance and significant contributions, including 40 tackles, 8 sacks, and 14.5 tackles for loss in the previous season, Yeboah's presence on the field is formidable. His achievements, such as being selected for the All-Star First Team in 2021, underscore his impact and leadership, qualities he aims to continue showcasing with the Munich Ravens in the upcoming season.

 

13. Johannes Zirngibl – DE Then: Munich Ravens, Now: Munich Ravens:

While he didn't make it to the All-Star Team, Zirngibl's placement in the league's top rankings underscores his quality and impact on the field. Zirngibl's football journey is a story of unwavering dedication and constant pursuit of excellence. From his beginnings with the Plattling Black Hawks to his current role with the Munich Ravens, he has consistently demonstrated his talent and tenacity, earning the respect of teammates and opponents alike.

© Steve Bunkahle

Last season, Zirngibl's contributions were pivotal to the Ravens' success, with impressive statistics like 47 tackles, 5.5 sacks, 16 tackles for loss, one forced fumble, and three fumble recoveries. His ability to disrupt plays and make game-changing stops underscores his importance to the team's defense.

12. Hiswill Awuah – DT Then: Hamburg Sea Devils, Now: Munich Ravens: 

Hiswill Awuah transitions to the Munich Ravens after his tenure with the Hamburg Sea Devils, bringing his nice presence as a Defensive Tackle/Nose Guard. Following his former defensive coordinator to Munich, Awuah joins forces with Evans Yeboah and Johannes Zirngibl, forming a formidable trio on the line of scrimmage.

In the previous season, Awuah showcased his skills with 33 tackles, 4 sacks, 6.5 tackles for loss, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery. His ability to disrupt runplace and crush the pocket could be a nice asset for Munich.

11. Tomiwa Oyewo – RB Then: Munich Ravens, Now: Munich Ravens:

Tomiwa Oyewo remains a pivotal player for the Munich Ravens, showcasing his versatility and skill as a running back. As one of the top 20 players in the ELF top 100, Oyewo's presence on the field is a testament to his exceptional talent. In the previous season, Oyewo delivered outstanding performances, amassing impressive stats with 170 attempts for 1102 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns. His ability to make crucial plays and contribute significantly to the team's success makes him a valuable asset for the Ravens.

The second highest ranked running back in the league in 2023. Oyewo was a beast and is set to return. © Lars Kauz

As the star running back for the Munich Ravens this season, Oyewo's presence will undoubtedly play a crucial role in the team's performance. With his remarkable skills and track record of success, Oyewo is poised to continue making a significant impact on the field for the Ravens.