Veteran homegrown defensive back Benjamin Straight is back in purple for the 2025 season. The All-Star rejoins a Vikings team that nearly had a perfect season going 13-0 before losing in the championship game. For Straight suiting up for the Vikings again in was a easy decision.

"Resigning with the Vikings this year was a no brainer for me. The fans, my teammates and the coaching staff played a huge part in that decision - but also because there is still some unfinished business that needs to be taken care of. I know that the team we are building this year has the potential to win another championship and I wanted to be a part of that. I cant wait to get back on the field and play ball. Go Vikings!"

Run it Straight back

Like many 2024 Vikings, Straight is determined to hoist the ELF championship trophy in 2025. The 25-year old was one of the best homegrown defenders in the ELF last season making 48 tackles along with 4 tackles for a loss and 4 interceptions, taking one back for a touchdown. His performance earned him a spot on the 2024 ELF 1st team All Star team. This was his second All-Star selection (2022). 

Head coach Chris Calaycay commented on what it means to have Straight return to his defense:

"Re-Signing Benjamin Straight means that we continue our all pro tradition here in Vienna; from Luis Horvath getting passed to Ben Straight. Ben has been a top performer in the league since he entered in 2022, has been an outstanding playmaker. As soon as Ben is on the field, he creates a huge physical presence for our defense. Not only is he a great player, he is a leader in the heart being our defensive captain. No doubt, Ben will make a tremendous impact on the 2025 season. With his work ethic, Ben embodies what the Vikings are about: as a person and as a player."

A key playmaker stays in purple

Straight is a veteran of the Vikings team helping them win the 2022 ELF title serving as the team’s safety and punter. Overall Straight has been a cornerstone of Chris Calaycay’s defense since joining the ELF, making 170 tackles, 9 interceptions, and scoring 4 touchdowns. He is also a member of the Austrian National team which won the European IFAF chamionship in 2023.

“I know that the team we are building this year has the potential to win another championship.” – Ben Straight 

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