From NFL to ELF - The homecoming of European professionals in 2023

The European League of Football continued to grow in 2023, attracting more former NFL talent from both sides of the Atlantic. Some familiar names returned for another season, while a few high-profile newcomers made their ELF debut, returning back to their roots. Among the most notable new arrivals were German wide receiver Moritz Böhringer and Austrian running back Sandro Platzgummer, two players who once carried European hopes in the NFL.

Moritz Böhringer – Stuttgart Surge

When the Stuttgart Surge announced the signing of Moritz Böhringer in the offseason, it felt like a full-circle moment for European football. Böhringer became a legend in 2016 when the Minnesota Vikings drafted him directly from Germany’s GFL, making him the first player ever drafted into the NFL without college experience in North America. He later spent time on the Cincinnati Bengals’ practice squad before returning to Europe.

In 2023, Böhringer brought his athleticism and professionalism to Stuttgart, helping turn the Surge into one of the strongest teams in the league. His presence on the roster was not only symbolic but also proof that European football could develop NFL-caliber talent and welcome them back to inspire the next generation.

Sandro Platzgummer – Raiders Tirol

Sandro Platzgummer’s name has long been associated with determination and pride. After joining the New York Giants through the NFL’s International Pathway Program, the Austrian running back spent three years in New York, impressing coaches with his speed and work ethic. Though he never played a regular-season snap, he left a mark in preseason highlights, especially with his memorable 48-yard run against the Jets.

In 2023, Platzgummer returned home to play for Raiders Tirol, his former club, now part of the ELF. His return gave fans in Austria a local hero to rally behind and showed how the league continues to bridge the gap between European and American football.

Returning NFL Veterans in 2023

Several former NFL players who had already featured in the ELF returned for the 2023 season as well:

• Giorgio Tavecchio (Milano Seamen) – former Raiders, Falcons, and 49ers kicker
• Reece Horn (Frankfurt Galaxy) – former Titans, Dolphins, and Bengals receiver
• Anthony Mahoungou (Rhein Fire) – former Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver
• Darius Saint-Robinson (Munich Ravens) – former Buffalo Bills defensive back
• Anthony Dablé-Wolf (Leipzig Kings) – former Giants and Falcons wide receiver

© Fiona Noever