Under the helmet, there are hidden stars of European American football. Let's take a look at the players behind the face masks. Here are the Top 10 players of 2023 and where they play now:

10. Florian Bierbaumer – TE Then: Vienna Vikings, Now: NFL IPP-Program:

Florian Bierbaumer continues to be a significant figure in the football world, despite facing setbacks. Last season, he displayed remarkable resilience and talent, bouncing back from a season-ending knee injury to deliver outstanding performances for the Vienna Vikings. With 36 receptions for 556 receiving yards and 5 touchdowns, Bierbaumer proved his worth on the field and earned a well-deserved invitation to the NFL International Player Pathway Program (IPP).

Florian Bierbaumer was working in the IPPP this offseason.© Fiona Noever

9. Berend Grube – DE Then: Hamburg Sea Devils, Now: Raiders Tirol:

Berend Grube's journey from the Hamburg Sea Devils to the Raiders Tirol marks a new chapter in his football career. With his imposing presence and relentless determination, Grube has established himself as a top defensive end in the ELF. Last season, Grube's stellar performance with the Sea Devils earned him recognition as a member of the ELF Top 100, thanks to impressive statistics including 51 tackles, 9.5 sacks, 13 tackles for loss, 2 forced fumbles, and 2 fumble recoveries. Now, as part of the Raiders Tirol, Grube joins forces with Niklas Gustav to wreak havoc on opposing quarterbacks.

Berend Grube has found a new home in the Alps. © Jonas Wicker

8. Paul Seifert – LB Then: Berlin Thunder, Now: Berlin Thunder:

Seifert's impact on the field is undeniable, as demonstrated by his exceptional performance last season. With impressive statistics including 90 tackles, 7 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, 2 interceptions, 2 forced fumbles, 1 fumble recovery, and 2 touchdowns, he solidified his position as one of the top linebackers in the league. His remarkable achievements led to his ranking as the 8th player on the ELF Top 100 list.

Staying home: Seifert will go into his fourth year with the Thunder. © Eric Muehle

As he prepares for the upcoming season, Seifert remains a crucial component of the Berlin Thunder's defense. With his proven skills and unwavering commitment, he is set to continue making significant contributions to the team's success on the field.

7. Reilly Hennessey – QB Then: Stuttgart Surge, Now: Stuttgart Surge:

In the upcoming season, quarterback Reilly Hennessey remains a key player for the Stuttgart Surge. Despite missing some games last season, the 28-year-old showcased his talent and made a significant impact whenever he took the field. With 1679 passing yards, 14 touchdowns, and only 3 interceptions in just 7 games, Hennessey proved his worth as a dynamic playmaker.

Reilly Hennessey is coming for the Championship in 2024. © Fiona Noever

Teaming up with his trio of 1000-yard receivers, Hennessey forms a formidable quartet that will undoubtedly pose a threat to opposing defenses once again. As he continues to lead the Surge's offense, his exceptional passing and rushing abilities will be crucial in driving the team's success on the field.

6. Kyle Kitchens – DT Then: Berlin Thunder, Now: Berlin Thunder:

Returning to the Berlin Thunder for another season, defensive powerhouse Kyle Kitchens reaffirms his status as a dominant force on the field. With a track record of excellence, Kitchens has consistently terrorized opposing offensive lines, earning recognition as one of the league's most important defenders.

The two-time DPOY is back in Berlin. © Fiona Noever

In each of his ELF seasons, Kitchens has showcased his exceptional skills, earning accolades such as the Defensive Player of the Year award and multiple selections to the All-Star Team. His ability to disrupt plays and consistently pressure quarterbacks makes him a nightmare for any offensive coordinator tasked with devising a game plan against him.

5. Dawid Brzozowski – RB Then: Wrocław Panthers, Now: Wroclaw Panthers:

Continuing his journey with the Wrocław Panthers, Dawid Brzozowski remains a key player for the team in the 2024 season. As the reigning Homegrown of the Year, the 23-year-old running back has already made a significant impact on the field, showcasing his explosive playmaking ability.

Despite his young age, Brzozowski has proven himself as a reliable and dynamic playmaker, capable of delivering big plays when it matters most. With 1116 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns in the previous season, he has established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the ELF.

The best homegrown running back in the league: Dawid Brzozowski. © Fiona Noever

As Brzozowski enters his third season in 2024, expectations are high for his continued growth and success. Fans can expect him to once again be a standout performer for the Panthers, with the potential for even greater achievements on the horizon. Watch out for Dawid Brzozowski as he looks to elevate his game to new heights in the upcoming season.

4. Maceo Beard – CB Then: Helvetic Guards, Now: Paris Musketeers:

Entering his third season, Maceo Beard continues to solidify his reputation as one of the top defensive players in the league. After a stellar performance that earned him the Defensive Player of the Year award, Beard has made the decision to return to his roots and join the Paris Musketeers.

As the best defensive player in the ELF Top 100, Beard brings a wealth of talent and experience to the Musketeers' lineup. His exceptional stats from the previous season, including 40 tackles, 8 interceptions, and 2 touchdowns, underscore his impact on the field.

3. Markell Castle – WR Then: Munich Ravens, Now: Frankfurt Galaxy:

As the top wide receiver of the past season, Markell Castle has made a significant decision to switch teams. In the upcoming season, Castle will be wearing the jersey of the Frankfurt Galaxy, the champions of the ELF 2021 season. His arrival adds a formidable dimension to the Galaxy's offensive arsenal, making them a force to be reckoned with once again.

He dominated everywhere he went to: Markell Castle is now heading to Frankfurt. © Lina Bollig

Castle's exceptional speed, route-running precision, and reliable hands have made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. His ability to consistently make big plays down the field has earned him recognition as one of the most dangerous receivers in the league. With his track record of leading the league in receiving yards and touchdowns, Castle brings tons of experience and talent to the Frankfurt Galaxy.

2. Chad Jeffries – QB Then: Munich Ravens, Now: Munich Ravens:

As the Munich Ravens gear up for another season, they welcome back their precision passer, Chad Jeffries, to lead the charge from the quarterback position. Jeffries, renowned for his accuracy and decision-making on the field, returns for his second season with the Ravens, aiming to build upon the success of the previous year.

Winning games for the Ravens, Jeffries stays in Munich. © Steve Bunkahle

In tandem with star receiver Markell Castle, Jeffries made headlines with his exceptional playmaking abilities, orchestrating the Ravens' offense with finesse. Now, at 31 years old, Jeffries enters the new season with determination and a hunger for success.

1. Jadrian Clark – QB Then: Rhein Fire, Now: Rhein Fire:

MVP of the 2023 season. Will he go back-to-back? © Fiona Noever

Jadrian Clark, the standout quarterback and MVP of the 2023 ELF season, returns to lead Rhein Fire. Despite loosing key targets this season, Clark's leadership and skill promise continued success. With over 3500 passing yards and 53 touchdowns last season, he remains a force to be reckoned with. As Rhein Fire's journey unfolds, Clark's determination will be instrumental in their quest for back-to-back victories.