Javarian Smith's move to the Hamburg Sea Devils in the European League of Football (ELF) for the 2024 season marks a significant step in his professional football career. Having demonstrated exceptional skills at Lake Erie Storm (2015-2019) and then in Europe with teams like the Prague Black Panthers (2022) and the Allgäu Comets (2023), Smith brings a wealth of experience to his new team.

© Henning Rohlfs

His performance with the Comets back in 2023 underscored his dual-threat capability, which will be central to the Sea Devils' offensive strategy. 44 passing touchdowns, over 3,000 passing yards and nine touchdowns on the ground in only twelve games speak for itself. But will he be able to turn the tide in Hamburg this upcoming season?

Quarterback Carousel

The Hamburg Sea Devils have had a dynamic history of quarterbacks. In recent seasons, they have had both local and international talents such as Salieu Ceesay, Moritz Maack, and Jadrian Clark (now with Rhein Fire) under center. The team also signed US-American Preston Haire for the 2023 season, following his stint with Oklahoma Baptist and a minicamp with the New Orleans Saints. Haire was brought in for his comprehensive skill set, expected to strengthen the Sea Devils' quarterback position​.

Can Javarian be the leader on the field? © Henning Rohlfs

However, with Haire at quarterback, the Sea Devils suffered their first losing season (4-8) since 2021 which forced the team to yet go another direction at the most important position in football.

Javarian Smith is sought to be the answer for the Sea Devils at quarterback for the 2024 season and appears to be continuing their approach of blending diverse talents and experiences to enhance their gameplay. Smith's recent track record suggests he is looked at as a key player to turn their negative record of 2023 into a possible playoff appearance in 2024.