Raiders Tirol - Ready for a breakthrough in 2025​

As part of our series previewing all 16 teams in the European League of Football for the 2025 season, we turn our attention to the Raiders Tirol. After a solid 2024 campaign, the Raiders are gearing up to make a significant impact this year, blending veteran American imports, promising European talents, and homegrown players under the guidance of an experienced coaching staff with NFL experience.​

American Imports - QB Conor Miller returns to the ELF

The Raiders Tirol have added crucial pieces from the United States to boost both sides of the ball. Quarterback Conor Miller returns for his third season in the ELF. After stints with the Leipzig Kings and Barcelona Dragons, Miller now takes on the starting quarterback job in Tirol. Known for his poise in the pocket and quick release, Miller’s familiarity with the ELF could give the Raiders an early edge. 

On defense, American defensive back Maddox will be a key figure in the secondary. His speed, physicality, and college-level experience from the United States should provide a much-needed boost to Tirol’s pass defense, which struggled at times in 2024. Adding to the secondary, Dijon Walls will join the Raiders and Maddox to strengthen the Austrian pass defense. 

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Homegrown Heroes - WR Philipp Haun extends his contract

Wide receiver Philipp Haun continues to be a cornerstone for the Raiders. Since joining in 2022, Haun has amassed 1,698 receiving yards and 16 touchdowns over 36 games, showcasing his reliability and skill as a homegrown wide receiver threat. 

Another notable homegrown talent is wide receiver Felix Reitter. Having risen through the Raiders' youth program, Reitter led the team in the Austrian Football League with 543 yards on 33 catches in seven games. His progression into the ELF squad marks a significant step in his career. At the running back position, the Raiders extended with Tobias Bonatti who proved to be a weapon on offense since joining the Swarco Raiders back in 2010 and the Raiders Tirol in 2022 for their first season in the ELF. 

European Imports: Adding Depth and Experience

The Raiders have also secured impactful European players to strengthen their lineup. Defensive lineman Dušan Novaković, hailing from Serbia, joins the team after a successful stint with the Panthers Wrocław, where he recorded 44 tackles and 2.5 sacks in the previous ELF season. Novaković already played for the Panthers in 2022 as well and now looks to contribute to the Raiders in the upcoming 2025 season. 

On the offensive line, Swedish talent Oscar Strömstedt has been extended to provide stability and protection. His experience in the Finnish league, where he was recognized as the best right tackle in the SAJL 2023 All Stars Offense-Team, is expected to be invaluable just like last season which he also spent with the Austrian team. 

Coaching Staff - HC Jim Herrmann with NFL experience

At the helm is head coach Jim Herrmann, whose extensive coaching resume includes roles in the NFL with teams like the New York Jets and Indianapolis Colts. His leadership and his experience from 2024 with the Raiders in the ELF anticipated to bring the Austrian football team a strategic edge. 

Supporting him is offensive line coach and offensive coordinator Charlie Eger, who brings decades of experience from college football, the NFL, and the XFL. His expertise is expected to enhance the performance of the Raiders' offensive line to protect quarterback Conor Miller and the overall offensive production. 

Playoff Prospects - Aiming for the top

With a blend of veteran imports, homegrown talent, and experienced coaching, the Raiders Tirol are well-positioned to make a strong push for the playoffs in 2025. The team's strategic acquisitions and internal development suggest a promising season ahead with a potential playoff-berth.​

Fans can look forward to an exciting season as the Raiders strive to establish themselves as a dominant force in the European League of Football starting this May!

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