The Helvetic Mercenaries continue to build towards 2025 this time signing defensive end DeMarco Artis. The experienced international pro joins the ELF for the first time after spending the past two seasons in Finland.

Artis is projected to be a cornerstone American import at the defensive end spot for new head coach Marcus Herford’s team in 2025. The former West Florida (NCAA D2) defensive end has excellent experience playing in Europe, earning all-star honors in the Finnish Maple League. Herford hopes to use the 190cm and 110kg defensive as a mismatch at the line of scrimmage, as we've seen a handful of ELF teams use this tactic in the past.  

Record-breaking 2023 season

Artis had a phenomenal 2023 season, breaking the league record with 12 sacks while adding 44 tackles and 17 tackles for a loss while playing for the Wasa Royals in Finland. His pass rushing skills earned him the record for sacks in a season, previously held by William Lydle of the Cologne Centurions. This accomplishment earned Artis the "Lineman of the year" award. 

The 25-year-old Florida native was originally recruited by Division one Baylor University out of high school. After spending one season with the Baylor Bears, Artis transferred back home to West Florida University, where he had 7.5 sacks in his career. 

Artis joins a veteran, Joc Crawford as the two American imports on defense. The Mercenaries have already signed All-Star wide receiver Aaron Jackson to be one of their American imports on offense. Jackson will also be joined by Rookie of the year Milan Spiller, who return to the Mercenaries for 2025.

Now the question remains who will be the Mercenaries quarterback in 2025. 

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