Stuttgart Surge – Will they finally win ELF Championship?

30.04.2025, 16:30
Tim Hanswillemenke

As part of our preview series for all 16 teams in the European League of Football ahead of the 2025 season, we take a closer look at the Stuttgart Surge. After a breakout 2023 campaign that saw them reach the ELF Championship Game and a strong follow-up season in 2024, the Surge return with continuity at key positions and a bolstered European and American core to push for their first ELF title.

American Imports – Reilly Hennessey back under center

Quarterback Reilly Hennessey returns as the offensive leader for the Surge. The Eastern Washington and Central Washington product has been a consistent presence since joining the ELF and remains one of the league's more mobile and experienced quarterbacks. His dual-threat ability and strong leadership provide Stuttgart with a reliable foundation under center.

On defense, American defensive back Mitch Fettig returns to the blue and yellow. Known for his explosiveness and tackling instincts, will again be one of the most important pieces.

Homegrown Heroes – Kai Hunter and company

Running back Kai Hunter, classified as a homegrown talent, returns to the Surge after previous stops at Frankfurt Galaxy and Stuttgart in 2023 and 2024. The powerful back brings both versatility and pass-catching ability to the offense. His development has been a success story for the franchise.

Another standout is local tight end Roberto Miranda. The 26-year-old tight end will suit up for his first season in the European League of Football after he played for the University of Arizona for the last few years. With his experience, he could quickly become one of the offensive cornerstones for the Stuttgart Surge.

European Additions – Veteran Presence in the Trenches

Stuttgart has again been active in adding European talent to round out the roster. Tomiwa Oyewo, a British-Nigerian running back formerly with the Munich Ravens, joins the team to form a thunder-and-lightning combo with Hunter. His agility and elusiveness in space will give the Surge added dynamism in the backfield.

On the offensive line, Alessandro Vergani extended his contract with the Surge. The 35-year-old will bring massive experience and leadership to the locker room.

Coaching Staff – Jordan Neuman leads the charge

At the helm is head coach Jordan Neuman, who returned to Europe after coaching in the United States and previously winning multiple German Bowl titles with the Schwäbisch Hall Unicorns. Under Neuman's guidance, Stuttgart transformed from a struggling franchise with one win over a span of two years into a Championship contender for the previous two seasons. His system, which blends disciplined football with modern offensive schemes, has proven successful in the ELF.

Playoff prospects – Eyes on the prize

With a returning core of key contributors, strong leadership on the sidelines, and a mix of battle-tested American imports and developing European talent, the Stuttgart Surge enter 2025 as one of the most complete and cohesive teams in the league. Following last season’s playoff run, expectations are high — and the Surge seem ready to rise to the occasion.