Madrid Bravos: Ready for the next step in 2025  

With our new article series, we introduce all 16 teams of the European League of Football for the 2025 season. Today, we take a closer look at the Madrid Bravos, a team that impressed in their first ELF season. They made it all the way to the Wildcard Round before being eliminated by Rhein Fire. Now, with big changes in the roster and coaching staff, the Bravos are ready to take the next step and fight for a spot in the Championship Game.  

A former NFL quarterback leads the offense  

The Bravos made a big statement by signing their new American quarterback. Reid Sinnett will lead Madrid’s offense in the upcoming season. This will be his first season in Europe, but he brings experience from the NFL and UFL. Sinnett has played for five different NFL teams, including the Buccaneers, Dolphins, Eagles, and Bengals. His strong arm and leadership will be key for the Bravos’ success.  

QB Reid Sinnett is set to make a big impact in 2025. ©Greg Fiume/UFL/Getty Images

Strong wide receiver corps  

For quarterback Reid Sinnett, a reliable group of wide receivers will be essential. The Bravos have built a strong receiving unit this season. Their top target will likely be Aron Cruickshank, a young but experienced player at just 24 years old. He played college football at Rutgers University and had training camps with the Chicago Bears and Pittsburgh Steelers.  

Cruickshank’s playing style is similar to Willie Patterson, the Bravos' top receiver from last season, who has now joined the Prague Lions. Like Patterson, Cruickshank is dangerous both as a receiver and a rusher. Additionally, he will make an impact on special teams as a return specialist.  

Aron Cruickshank is now hunting for touchdowns with the Bravos. ©Cos Lymperopoulos

"Iceman" is back  

One of Madrid’s biggest stars is returning to full strength. Alejandro “Iceman” Fernandez is known as one of the best defensive ends in Europe. Last season, he was injured for most of the year and only returned late in the season. Now, with a full preparation, Fernandez is ready to do what he does best: hunt quarterbacks.  

Alejandro Fernandez is ready to dominate offensive lines. ©Paula Romo

A new offensive genius takes over  

The Bravos have also made a big change in the coaching staff. Andrew Weidinger is the new head coach in Madrid. Weidinger has been a key factor for success wherever he coached. He previously worked as the head coach of the Barcelona Dragons and was the offensive coordinator for Rhein Fire.  

Weidinger also brings NFL experience, having worked for the Atlanta Falcons and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. His offensive knowledge will be crucial for Madrid’s success. Fans can expect an explosive and well-organized team in 2025.  

HC Andrew Weidinger will help the Madrid Bravos' offense reach new strength. ©Justin Derondeau

Can the Bravos reach the top?  

After an impressive debut season, the Madrid Bravos want to achieve even greater success. The team has made big adjustments, but will everything work out as planned? The 2025 season will show if the Bravos are ready to fight for the ELF Championship.