Last year, the Raiders were known for their great defense. An important part of their pass rush and run defense was former CFL defensive end Niklas Gustav.

In 2022, Gustav was responsible for 48 total tackles, ten sacks, and 15 tackles for loss. He even added one forced fumble throughout twelve games played in the regular season. With that kind of impact, re-signing Gustav seems more than right.

“I am very excited to have Niklas [Gustav] back,” Raiders head coach Kevin Herron commented, via the team. “He brings the values that we want to see in a Raider. He tries to work harder than everybody else and is also ready to go. We can always count on him. I can’t wait to see him return even stronger. Welcome home!”

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Gustav: "There is not a more professional franchise in Europe" 

Once the 2022 season came to an end, Gustav knew that he wants to stay in Innsbruck to play for the Raiders in 2023. “After the end of last season, it was clear to me that I will stay with the Raiders,” the 188cm tall and 109kg heavy defensive end commented. “In my eyes, there is not a more professional franchise in Europe […].”

With Gustav, the Raiders add to an already dangerously looking defense. Especially their defensive backfield looks promising, with a handful of players from the 2022 season already re-signed. Let’s see what other players the Austrian franchise has in store before the third season of the European League of Football kicks off in June!

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