While the ELF's northernmost franchise was slow to emerge from hibernation, an underdog in its purest form emerged. Due to the precarious Hamburg stadium situation, the team tried to find creative solutions with a northern Germany tour and the International Game in Croatia. After much persuasion, this experiment seems to have been well received by the fans. And why not? After all, supporters can not only look forward to exciting stadiums in Hannover, Bremen and Hamburg, but also to innovative, modern football.

New coaches bring useful change

Under the direction of new head coach and offensive coordinator Matt Johnson, the Sea Devils are entering new waters. Johnson, a former quarterback, brings with him a broad network in German football. His goal for the team is clear: to establish a championship mentality from day one and capitalize on the element of surprise. At his side is defensive coordinator Brandon Noble, a promising new coach. Noble's experience as an ex-defensive tackle with the Dallas Cowboys and Washington Commanders (formerly Redskins) could be useful in developing the Sea Devils' defensive strategies at the highest European level.

New faces essential for development

Offensively, quarterback Javarian Smith is expected to provide a stiff breeze. Wide receivers Jarvis McClam, formerly of the Raiders Tirol, and Theodor Landström, formerly of the Barcelona Dragons, will be used as key targets in the passing game. However, the departures of Evans Yeboah and Hiswill Awuah to the Munich Ravens mark significant losses for the team's defense. The new names here are Michael Keshinro and Zaire Ugapo. While the team has an almost entirely new look, the mix of new coaching prospects, strategic signings and the development of existing talent points to an interesting season that could provide plenty of surprises.