Nordic Storm - A new force with familiar faces

With a new article series on our website, we want to introduce all of the sixteen European League of Football franchises for the 2025 season and what they are made of. For its fifth season, the ELF welcomes an exciting new contender: the Nordic Storm. Based in Copenhagen, Denmark, the team aims to become a powerhouse in European American football, bringing together some of the best talent from the region and the continent of Europe. With an experienced coaching staff, high-profile international signings, and ambitious goals, the Nordic Storm are ready to make waves in their inaugural season starting this May. 

A-Imports - Former Rhein Fire QB Jadrian Clark takes over 

One of the biggest moves for the Nordic Storm was securing quarterback Jadrian Clark, a name well-known across the ELF. Clark, the 2023 ELF MVP, played a pivotal role in leading the Rhein Fire to a championship and is now tasked with orchestrating the Storm’s offense. His deep understanding of the game, combined with his leadership skills, makes him the perfect signal-caller for a team looking to make an immediate impact as a new franchise. 

Another major American addition is safety Luke Glenna, an All-Star defensive back who has made a significant impact in the ELF. In his debut season with the Barcelona Dragons in 2023, he led the league with 137 tackles and secured four interceptions, earning First-Team All-Star honors. The following year, playing for the Madrid Bravos, Glenna continued to excel, further establishing himself as a defensive powerhouse. His addition to the Nordic Storm brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in bolstering the secondary. 

E-Imports - ELF rushing leader Glen Toonga 

Alongside their high-profile American imports, the Nordic Storm have invested in elite European talent. In the backfield, the Storm boast another elite import in running back Glen Toonga. Toonga, the 2024 ELF MVP, arrives after dominating with the Rhein Fire, where he was a key piece of their title-winning squad. His explosive running style and ability to break tackles will be essential for establishing a strong ground game, taking pressure off Clark and giving the Storm a balanced offensive attack. And do not forget that Toonga and quarterback Jadrian Clark build on a long relationship as teammates together at Rhein Fire for the past two seasons. 

On the defensive side, the team has brought in defensive back Chad Walrond, formerly of the Stuttgart Surge. Walrond is known for his speed, agility, and ability to shut down opposing receivers, making him a key addition to the secondary. Joining him is defensive back Exavier Edwards, an ELF All-Star and 2022 champion with the Vienna Vikings. Edwards brings championship experience and defensive versatility, ensuring that the Storm’s defense will be well-equipped to handle even the most potent passing attacks. 

Homegrown Talent - Former Sea Devils WR Theodor Landström 

The Nordic Storm are committed to developing local talent from Denmark and Sweden, integrating players who embody the spirit and potential of Nordic football. Among the 
standout homegrown players is wide receiver Theodor Landström, a Swedish talent known for his precise route-running and reliable hands who formerly played for the Hamburg Sea Devils in 2024. Alongside him is linebacker Emil Hovde, a Danish native whose aggressive playing style and defensive instincts make him a key part of the Storm’s defense who played for the Berlin Thunder in previous years. Another exciting prospect is wide receiver Edwin Almeida, a Swedish speedster who brings agility and versatility to the team’s offensive unit. Together, these players represent the foundation of the Nordic Storm’s commitment to fostering regional talent from Sweden and Denmark while setting the goal high to compete for a spot in the playoffs in 2025. 

Another notable signing is center Joachim Christensen, a three-time ELF All-Star. Christensen, who initially retired from professional football, has decided to return and reunite with his former teammates Clark and Toonga. His experience and leadership will be crucial in solidifying the offensive line and providing stability for the Storm’s offense as a homegrown player. 

A coaching staff with NFL and ELF experience 

Leading the charge on the sidelines is head coach John Shoop, a well-respected name in American football. With over two decades of coaching experience in the NFL and college football, Shoop is no stranger to developing talent and building competitive teams. His recent success in the ELF includes guiding the Munich Ravens to a 7-5 record in their inaugural 2023 season and working as the quarterbacks coach for the Rhein Fire in 2024. His expertise will be invaluable in shaping the Storm’s identity on the field. 

Assisting Shoop is defensive coordinator Brandon Noble, a former NFL player and experienced coach. Noble previously served as the defensive coordinator and assistant head coach for the Hamburg Sea Devils in 2024, where he helped build a formidable defensive unit. His knowledge of defensive schemes and player development will be key in ensuring that the Storm’s defense can compete with the best in the league. 

Season objectives - Aiming for playoff contention 

The Nordic Storm have set ambitious goals for their first few seasons in the ELF. While immediate championship aspirations may be a stretch, the organization has made it clear that they aim to be regular playoff contenders in the future. With a well-structured roster, an experienced coaching staff, and a clear vision for success, the Storm are looking to establish themselves as one of the league’s premier teams. 

For their debut season in 2025, the primary objective is to be highly competitive from the start, making a statement against more established teams. By leveraging their mix of seasoned imports and local talent, the Storm hope to build a strong foundation for future success. 

With the combination of elite players, a knowledgeable coaching staff, and a city eager to embrace the sport, the Nordic Storm could very well become one of the most exciting teams 
to watch in the ELF. Football fans across Europe should keep an eye on this rising powerhouse as they prepare for their first season in the league. 

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