BREAKING - Five European specialists join NFL IPP Program 

The NFL has officially announced the addition of five new specialists to the International Player Pathway (IPP) Program 2025, marking a significant moment for international athletes aiming for a career in the league. Among them are two Germans, two Irishmen, and one Italian, all of whom will showcase their skills at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis this week.

This year’s inclusion of kickers and punters in the IPP program follows the success of last year’s expansion, which saw Irish kicker Charlie Smyth earn a place on the New Orleans Saints’ practice squad. Now, five new hopefuls are looking to follow in his footsteps.

The two German specialists now have the chance to jump from the European League of Football straight to the National Football League, just like former Stuttgart Surge defensive back Marcel Dabo back in 2022.

The five specialists fighting for an NFL future

The five international specialists added to the 2025 IPP class are:

• Bastian Roppelt (Germany, 24, Punter) – A standout punter from Frankfurt Galaxy in the European League of Football (ELF).
• ⁠Lenny Krieg (Germany, 22, Kicker) – Representing Stuttgart Surge, Krieg has made a name for himself as one of the most accurate kickers in Europe. He was able to convert 11 of 16 field goals and 66 out of 75 extra points for the Surge in 2024.
• ⁠Mark McNamee (Ireland, 25, Kicker) – The Irish kicker has impressed with his consistency and range, making him a valuable addition to the program.
• Ross Bolger (Ireland, 23, Kicker) – Known for his strong leg, Bolger has the potential to develop into an elite-level NFL kicker after suiting up for the University of Idaho in previous years.
• Jonata Loria (Italy, 24, Kicker) – Italy’s top kicking prospect, Loria has excelled in the international football scene and is now taking the next step toward the NFL.

The inclusion of specialists in the IPP program is a game-changer, as it allows international athletes to compete for a practice squad spot with one of the 32 NFL teams. Each team can allocate one extra roster spot specifically for an international player, offering a unique opportunity for these athletes to break into the league.

NFL Scouting Combine - The ultimate test

Now, all eyes are on the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium, where these five specialists will attempt to impress NFL scouts, coaches, and general managers. Their performances in kicking drills, accuracy tests, and power metrics could determine whether they land a contract with an NFL franchise.

For these athletes, the Combine is more than just a showcase—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to prove they belong on football’s biggest stage. With international players gaining more recognition in the NFL, the journey of Roppelt, Krieg, McNamee, Bolger, and Loria could be the start of a new wave of global special teams talent in the league.

Will one of them become the next international success story? The next few days could shape their football future forever.

©️ NFL Deutschland / NFL Germany