New look Lions: Prague ready to surprise in 2025

With our new article series, we’re introducing all 16 European League of Football franchises for the 2025 season. We highlight the top stars every fan needs to know. Today, we take a look at the Prague Lions — a team that had a tough and mixed 2024 season.

A new strategy for success?

The Prague Lions joined the ELF in 2023 but have not had much success so far. In 24 games, they’ve only won twice. But going into 2025, the Lions might be ready to surprise some people. One reason is their new approach to building the roster. Instead of relying only on new faces, they’ve added import players who already know the league and have proven themselves.

Willie Patterson will be hunting for touchdowns with Prague in 2025. ©Paula Romo

Versatile playmaker Patterson

One of the biggest names in their offense will be Willie Patterson. He showed his skills in 2023 with Rhein Fire, which led to him signing with the Madrid Bravos in 2024. There, he played a key role and impressed as a true all-around player — receiver, rusher, and even as an emergency quarterback. The Lions now hope Patterson can bring that same spark to their offense in 2025.

Homegrown talent steps up

The Lions lost a big piece of their defensive line during the off-season. James Brooks, their top defensive lineman, moved into a new role as the team’s defensive coordinator. Now, Czech talent Jakob Smutny is one of the players expected to take the next step in 2025. After recording 51 tackles, 2 sacks, and 14 tackles for loss last season, he’s shown the potential to become a real difference-maker on the defensive line.

Jalen Embry will be a tough challenge for opposing receivers. ©Paula Romo

Double trouble in the defensive backfield

With Brooks moving to coaching, the Lions also changed their strategy with American imports. Instead of one American on the line and one in the backfield, they now have two American defensive backs. One of them is Ja’Len Embry, who also played for the Madrid Bravos last year. He was one of the top cornerbacks in the league before an injury stopped his season. Embry was on track to be one of the interception leaders and is known for shutting down wide receivers. The Lions hope he can bring that same energy and lockdown ability to Prague.

Dave Warner has taken over as the new head coach of the Prague Lions. ©Mike Mulholland_MLive.com

Coaching boost from Madrid

The Lions also made a big change on the sidelines. Dave Warner, the former offensive coordinator of the Bravos, is now the new head coach. Warner helped lead one of the best offenses in the league last year — fifth in scoring and sixth in total yards. Now he brings his experience to Prague, along with a few familiar faces, and gets the chance to show what he can do as a head coach.

The Prague Lions are clearly heading in a new direction. With strong additions on and off the field, they might become one of the surprise teams of the 2025 ELF season. Fans should definitely keep an eye on this team.

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