Meet the 2025 Paris Musketeers: Ready for the next step

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 Paris Musketeers, a team that wants to take the next step toward the Championship Game after a close semifinal loss in 2024.

Jaylon Henderson is the new quarterback of the Paris Musketeers. ©Fabio Spitzenberg

First season without “Magic Zach”

Last season, the Paris Musketeers made big progress compared to their debut year in 2023. The main reason was their quarterback Zach Edwards, who had a fantastic season and led the team to the semifinals. He was named Offensive Player of the Year, and almost helped the team make a huge comeback in the semifinal.

But in the offseason, there was a big change — Zach Edwards decided to stay in the U.S. and take a break from football. To replace him, the Musketeers signed Jaylon Henderson, a strong quarterback who played in the German Football League. In just 15 games, Henderson threw for 5,202 passing yards and 91 touchdowns. Now, Paris hopes that Henderson can bring the same magic to the ELF as Edwards did.

Austin Mitchell provided many big plays last season. ©Maxime Le Pihif

Talented wide receiver room

Paris already had a very strong wide receiver group in 2024. Players like Anthony Mahoungou, Remi Bertellin, and Austin Mitchell made big plays all season long. For 2025, the Musketeers have already extended the contracts of Cheikou Sow, Hugo Tekedam, and Austin Mitchell — three of their top weapons.

Especially Mitchell stood out in his first ELF season. Now, with Jaylon Henderson at quarterback, the duo could become one of the most dangerous combinations in the league.

Lamonte McDougle will bring a lot of pressure together with the Musketeers’ defensive line. ©Jeff Huehn

Even stronger defense

On defense, the team lost an important player: linebacker Dauson Dales retired from football after a great final season. But the Musketeers acted fast and signed Lamonte McDougle, a strong defensive tackle.

McDougle will be part of an already powerful defensive line and will help bring even more pressure on quarterbacks. He will also be a big help against the run — making it hard for opposing running backs to find space.

Former NFL head coach Jack Del Rio is the successor to Marc Mattioli. 

NFL experience for a title run

Even with all their talent, the Musketeers have not yet reached the ELF Championship Game. After Head Coach Marc Mattioli left to return to the U.S., the team made a big move by signing former NFL Head Coach Jack Del Rio.

Del Rio has 26 years of NFL coaching experience, and with his leadership, the team hopes to finally reach the top. His knowledge and experience could help unlock the full potential of the Musketeers.

Tough road ahead

The 2025 schedule won’t be easy for Paris. They will face strong teams like Rhein Fire, Stuttgart Surge, and the Vienna Vikings — all semifinalists from last season. They will also play against Frankfurt Galaxy, the 2021 champions, who are ready to bounce back after a difficult 2024.

It will be a challenge, but with their new quarterback, strong receivers, powerful defense, and an experienced head coach, the Paris Musketeers are ready to fight for the title.

Get your tickets for the 2025 Championship Game in Stuttgart!