"An unbelievable honor" - Felix Lepper’s NFL IPP opportunity
Felix Pahl
© Eric MühleFelix Lepper has reached one of the most important milestones of his football career. The German offensive lineman has been selected for the NFL International Player Pathway (IPP) Program, a rare opportunity that opens the door toward the highest level of American football.
For Lepper, this moment is the result of many years of hard work, steady development, and persistence across different stages of European and international football.
A moment that changed everything
When the news arrived that he had been selected for the IPP Program, the emotions were immediate and mixed. Joy came first, followed by relief - and then motivation.
"I can’t really describe it with one word," Lepper explained. "First of all, there was a lot of joy, but also relief. And right away, the thought came that I want to work even harder now."
Rather than seeing the selection as a reward alone, Lepper views it as confirmation that the work must continue at an even higher level.
From combine to IPP selection
The road to the IPP Program began months earlier. During the summer, Lepper was informed that he would be invited to take part in the International Combine at the NFL Academy - a key step in the evaluation process for international players.
The weekend proved to be a turning point. His performances caught attention, and shortly after, the decisive call arrived.
"At the beginning of November, I got the call that I would be part of the IPP Camp," Lepper said.
That moment transformed a long-term goal into a concrete opportunity and set the stage for the next phase of his journey.
More than a football opportunity
Being selected for the IPP Program carries a deeper meaning for Lepper. Beyond the football aspect, it represents validation for years of sacrifice and commitment.
"It means an incredible amount to me to get such a once-in-a-lifetime chance," he said. "It shows me that all the hard work is worth it."
Lepper is also fully aware of what it means to represent German and European football on such a prominent stage.
"It’s an unbelievable honor. I want to be the next German who goes all the way and finishes this path."
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Inspired by those who paved the way
Looking back, Lepper admits that reaching this point was never part of the original plan when he first picked up the sport. Over time, ambition and passion grew, shaping his mindset.
"In recent years, I set myself the goal of reaching the NFL," he explained.
Along that path, players who had already succeeded through the IPP Program became important role models.
"Players like Jakob Johnson, David Bada, and Max Pircher showed me that it’s possible to go from Germany or Europe to the NFL."
Their success helped Lepper believe that the dream could become reality.
Built through experience and guidance
Lepper’s development as an offensive lineman has been shaped by many coaches, teammates, and environments. From his early years to international exposure, each step added another layer to his growth.
"The list is long," Lepper said. "It starts with my coaches at the Göttingen Generals, then Gridiron Imports, the opportunity to play at Fork Union Military Academy, and later the ELF."
He also emphasized the importance of his teammates, describing them as brothers who fought alongside him for every win.
Playing for multiple franchises in the European League of Football further strengthened his adaptability.
"Every year I gained new experiences and learned more - physically, mentally, and personally."
Eyes on Florida and the next step
Beginning in January, Lepper will take part in the 10-week IPP training program in Florida, where he will train both on the field and in the classroom before showcasing his abilities to NFL scouts.
“I’m excited to take the next step and prove myself in front of the scouts,” Lepper said.
The focus is clear: continued development, daily improvement, and earning the next opportunity.
Gratitude along the way
Before closing, Lepper made sure to highlight something that is often overlooked.
"I want to thank everyone who supported me on this journey, both privately and in football, from the bottom of my heart," he said. "A special thank you goes to my family, my girlfriend, and my friends."
As Felix Lepper prepares for the biggest challenge of his career, his story stands as an example of what dedication, patience, and belief can achieve - not only for him, but for the growing presence of European football on the global stage.
