Hamburg Sea Devils

The Hamburg Sea Devils are heading back to the Volksparkstadion! On July 20, 2025, they will host defending champions Rhein Fire in one of the most exciting matchups of the European League of Football season. Kickoff is set for 4:25 PM CET. Football fun for the whole family Before the game starts, fans can enjoy the popular Power Party outside the stadium. With food trucks, games, live entertainment, and fun activities for kids, it's the perfect day for football lovers of all ages. Last year, more than 25,000 fans packed the stadium. This year, even more are expected to come and support the Sea Devils as they aim for a big win in front of their home crowd. "A special atmosphere" Sea Devils Managing Director Mark Weitz shared his excitement: “The atmosphere at Volksparkstadion is something special. It’s more than just a game – it’s a true Hamburg event. The energy from the fans gives us goosebumps. We can’t wait to celebrate football together again.” Get your tickets!

One of the headlines of the ELF off-season was the Paris Musketeers signing Jack Del Rio as their next head coach. The story made waves across the football world as the ELF and the Musketeers were able to convince the former superbowl winning coach to come to France. “Yeah, Jack Del Rio is obviously a household name in the NFL. He's been a coordinator, been a head coach in the NFL. To me, it speaks volumes about the quality of the league and it's a testament to what the franchises have done in order to convince somebody of his magnitude to come over and be the head coach.” -Commissioner Patrick Esume   Jack Del Rio & Jim Tomsula ELF fans know Del Rio isn’t the only former NFL head coach in the league as Jim Tomsula has led the Rhein Fire to back to back titles in his three years in Düsseldorf. Now the former San Francisco 49ers coach leads the Fire into 2025 without MVP quarterback and running back Jadrian Clark and Glen Toonga, giving the Fire and Tomsula new challenge: “It’s consistency again that keeps you still up there. And the consistency is Jim Tomula and his coaching staff, right? Richard Kent, tremendous coach. So, I think that these two gentlemen, they're going to put a very good football team on the field that's well coached. They might not be as strong as the two years before, but they're going to be up there again.” Along with Del Rio and Tomsula, the ELF has several coaches with NFL experience including new head coach of the Frankfurt Galaxy Bart Andrus, who spent 5 seasons as an assistant coach in the NFL, as well as coaching in the CFL and USFL.  Other coaches in the ELF this season with NFL experience include: Berlin Thunder: OL coach Art Valero Nordic Storm: Head coach John Schoop & defensive coordinator Brandon Noble  Prague Lions:  DB coach Darqueze Dennard  Madrid Bravos: Head coach Andrew Weidinger, defensive coordinator Jim Collins Fehervar Enthroners: Head coach Mark Ridgley Raiders Tirol: Head coach Jim Herrmann, offensive coordinator Charlie Eger, and RBs coach Terry Malone  Hamburg Sea Devils: Defensive coordinator Ray Woodard Helvetic Mercenaries: DL coach Nordly ‘Cap’ Capi  Vienna Vikings: Analyst Norm Chow and kicking coach Giorgio Tavecchio

In April, we are revealing the Top 100 graded players of the 2024 European League of Football season, based on SportsMetrics’ advanced evaluation system. These rankings are based only on on-field performance — including consistency, impact, and position-specific stats. Today, we highlight the player ranked #2. #2 Kyle Kitchens Kyle Kitchens is one of the most dominant players in ELF history — and once again, he proved it in 2024. The three-time Defensive Player of the Year had another outstanding season and earned the #2 spot in this year’s Top 100. Kitchens led the league with 16.5 sacks, breaking his own ELF record (16) from the previous season. He also led the league in tackles for loss (TFL) and forced fumbles, continuing to be a nightmare for offensive lines across Europe. His ability to change a game with just one play is what sets him apart from others. A new chapter with the Sea Devils In the offseason, Kitchens made a big move. He signed with the Hamburg Sea Devils, bringing his elite pass-rushing skills to a new franchise. Now, the goal is clear: help the Sea Devils return to their winning ways and make a push for the playoffs. With his experience, leadership, and unmatched production, Kyle Kitchens will be one of the most important players to watch in the 2025 season. Don't miss a single game - Get your Game Pass now!

Not long now until the fifth season of the European League of Football begins. Preparations are in full swing. While some front offices are to keep announcing the final signings, the players are already training intensively. Meanwhile, the Hamburg Sea Devils have now announced that their first home game of the season will take place on May 31st against Stuttgart Surge at the Weserstadion in Bremen. This is where Bundesliga soccer team Werder Bremen normally plays. Last season, the team from Hamburg already played about 130 kilometers away in Bremen. Back then, in front of an impressive atmosph   ere, Sea Devils team captain Levi Kruse remembers: “The atmosphere in the Weserstadion with over 13,000 fans last year was a highlight - this year we want to go one better.” Sea Devils GM Weitz: "Received a very warm welcome here last year" Sea Devils General Manager Mark Weitz also emphasizes the importance of Bremen as a location: “We received a very warm welcome here last year - from the city, the stadium, and the fans. Bremen is a football-loving city with a wide range of teams and fans.” Despite the return of most home games to Hamburg, the game in Bremen remains on the calendar “because it's simply a great stage for football in northern Germany.” The excellent infrastructure particularly impresses him. In addition to a top-class opponent, fans can also look forward to a premiere with the match against Surge. The two teams have never met before in the European League of Football. The game kicks off with a power party at 1 pm. The game starts at 6 pm. Meanwhile, Head Coach Shuan Fatah is looking forward to a sporting challenge: “Stuttgart is a title contender, but we are ready to be an unpleasant opponent.” You can find out whether they succeed live in the ELF Game Pass or on site.  Don't miss a single ELF Game - get your Game Pass!

The European League of Football will soon be entering the new season. Will Rhein Fire make the three-peat? Who are the new stars of the teams? Questions upon questions. The teams have to answer many of them on the pitch, while we answer others in our “ELF Wire” format. Preparations for fith season of league history are in full swing. The teams have been practicing for a few days now and the final deals are being finalized. Over the past weeks and months, the front offices have worked hard to present the best possible roster for the upcoming season.    These are now almost completely finalized. Most of the spots are taken. Only a few announcements are still missing, so stay tuned and follow our channels and those of the teams closely.  The Opening Weekend will then begin on May 17th with the games Wroclaw Panthers vs. Ferhervar Enthroners, Paris Musketeers vs. Rhein Fire and Madrid Bravos vs. Hamburg Sea Devils. You can find a complete overview of all games here. Be ready. Don't miss a single ELF Game - get your Game Pass!

In April, we are revealing the Top 100 graded players of the 2024 European League of Football season, based on the advanced evaluation system by SportsMetrics. These rankings reflect pure on-field performance, with position-specific stats, consistency, and impact across the season. Today, we take a look at players ranked #60 to #51. #60 Devin Taylor The US cornerback did not make it easy for opposing receivers last season. The 27-year-old recorded twelve pass deflections and two interceptions for the Raiders Tirol. His strong athleticism also allows him to be repeatedly integrated into the pass rush during blitz plays. #59 Hugo Tekedam Tekedam is extremely flexible. The 23-year-old Frenchman can play both quarterback and wide receiver. Last season, he performed impressively as a wideout for the Paris Musketeers. Tekedam caught 48 passes for 761 yards and four touchdowns, making him the team's second-best receiver behind Austin Mitchell. Consequently, the Musketeers extended his contract. ©Werner Thorenz. #58 Kelvin McKnight Jr. What does a team need to win a championship game? That's right, also a good receiver, and one of those is former NFL-Wideout Kelvin McKnight Jr.. His almost 700 receiving yards and six touchdowns from the regular season were joined by another 200 yards and a touchdown in Rhein Fire's extremely successful playoff run. ©Hannes Jirgal 57 Ben Holmes Rhein Fire defeated the Vienna Vikings in the championship game. But the fact that the Austrians were there at all is also thanks to quarterback Ben Holmes. The US import knew how to impress. The management was also impressed, so they extended Holmes contract this offseason. ©Hannes Jirgal #56 Kevin Kaya Even if the season didn't quite go as expected for Frankfurt Galaxy, wide receiver Kevin Kaya was able to impress. The 30-year-old caught 50 passes for 768 yards and six touchdowns. Kaya also signed a new contract. ©Kevin Reuss #55 Lucas Harting Candido Last season, the young and agile running back made his breakthrough with the Hamburg Sea Devils. Time and again, the 22-year-old found gaps in the opposing defense and was able to contribute four touchdowns. He was also repeatedly integrated into the Sea Devils' passing game. #54 Stanley Zeregbe The 28-year-old Frenchman was a difference-maker in the Paris Musketeers' defensive line last season. Zeregbe started every game and recorded 37 tackles, including 10.5 for loss and eight sacks, by far the most on his team. The Musketeers can also count on Zeregbe's services next season - he signed a new contract. ©Maxime Le Pihif 53 Robert Werner Last season, Werner scored 91 points for the Munich Ravens. That's right, 91! Making the 36-year-old German the second-highest scorer of all kickers in the league. Only Lenny Krieg from Stuttgart Surge scored more, and he is now under contract in the NFL. 52 Gerald Ameln Five games and a touchdown in each one: running back Ameln seemed to be a part of an otherwise rather unlucky team. The 23-year-old from the Cologne Centurions caught another touchdown through the air. The Homegrown still has potential and will prove it next season at Frankfurt Galaxy, where he signed this offseason. 51 Louis Geyer The wide receiver has been a true great in the ELF for years. At Stuttgart Surge, he became a cruicial red zone talent who achieved great things last season. Geyer not only caught 13 touchdowns, but also became the all-time receiving leader in the European League of Football, as well as making two appearances on the 2023 and 2024 All-Star teams. As a reward, he was invited to the Canadian Football League Combine. ©Svenja Sabatini Stay tuned as we continue to count down the Top 100 players of the 2024 ELF season — with more stars, stats, and stories to come! Don't miss a single Game - Get your Game Pass!

In April, we are revealing the Top 100 graded players of the 2024 European League of Football season, based on the advanced evaluation system by SportsMetrics. These rankings reflect pure on-field performance, with position-specific stats, consistency, and impact across the season. Today, we take a look at players ranked #70 to #61. #70 Darragh Leader  Darragh Leader was a scoring machine for the Raiders Tirol. The Irish kicker was one of the most reliable in the ELF last season. Whether it was a field goal or an extra point, Leader got the job done. His accuracy gave the Raiders a strong boost in close games. For now, it’s still unknown where he’ll play in 2025. Stanley was one of the best receivers last season. ©Roland Johannes #69 Malik Stanley  A well-known name across the league, Malik Stanley showed once again why he's one of the ELF’s top receivers. Despite playing fewer games last season, the American wideout still finished with elite numbers for the Munich Ravens. His ability to make big plays secured him a well-deserved spot in the Top 100. #68 Jakob Sullivan  Jakob Sullivan is a true ELF veteran and a former champion. The American quarterback led the league in passing yards in 2024. While the season didn’t go as planned for Berlin Thunder, Sullivan proved that he remains one of the top QBs in Europe. Joc Crawford plays for the Mercenaries in the 2025 season. ©Eric Ribé #67 Joc Crawford  Even at age 37, Joc Crawford keeps performing at a high level. Last season, he played for the Milano Seamen and brought energy and power to their offense. For 2025, he joins the Helvetic Mercenaries, showing no signs of slowing down. #66 Isaiah Weed  Another exciting addition for the Mercenaries is QB Isaiah Weed. Known for his dual-threat ability, Weed can beat defenses through the air and on the ground. His explosive style made him one of the most exciting quarterbacks to watch last season. #65 Ryan Rimmler  Ryan Rimmler had a tough start to the season, but he improved each week. His biggest moment? A record-breaking 60-yard field goal — the longest in ELF history. That one kick alone made headlines across the league. The Hamburg Sea Devils got top cornerback Roedion Henrique. ©Petra Kutasi #64 Roedion Henrique  Henrique is one of the most consistent defensive backs in the league. Last season with the Enthroners, he made several big plays and proved once again why he’s a top DB. For 2025, he’s headed to the Hamburg Sea Devils to bring experience and leadership to the secondary. #63 Martin Pinter Martin Pinter made a name for himself last season with the Cologne Centurions. His ability to stop the run and pressure the quarterback caught the attention of the Frankfurt Galaxy, who signed him for 2025. Pinter brings toughness and production to an already strong defense. #62 Sandro Platzgummer  The former New York Giants running back showed his elite talent in the ELF. Platzgummer was a key part of the Galaxy’s offense and formed a strong duo with QB Matthew McKay. In 2025, he'll team up with Gerald Ameln to create a dangerous backfield. Marius Kensy wants to win the third title in a row for Rhein Fire. ©Fabio Deinert #61 Marius Kensy Marius Kensy was one of the best linebackers in the league last season. With 94 tackles and 2 sacks, he played a big role in Rhein Fire’s Championship-winning season. He’s back for 2025 and ready to lead the defense again. Stay tuned as we continue to count down the Top 100 players of the 2024 ELF season — with more stars, stats, and stories to come! Get your tickets for the Championship Game in Stuttgart!

The Hamburg Sea Devils head into 2025 under new leadership as proven winner Shaun Fatah takes over as head coach for the Sea Devils.  Leading the offense for the former NFL Europe squad will be new ELF “Rookie” quarterback Micah Leon. A new challege  This season will be Leon’s first as a pro and first in Europe after spending several seasons at three different division one programs. Leon has all the size and tools at 195 cm and a strong arm. The Boca Raton Florida native, initially played for NC State (where he was teammates with current Frankfurt Galaxy QB Matthew McKay, before transferring to UConn, and finally spending his final college season in the SEC with the Florida Gators.  Leon spoke on why he chose to take his talents to Hamburg and embrace a new challenge in Europe: “I chose Hamburg because of Coach Shuan and Coach Lee. I have a lot of trust in both of them as coaches and am excited to see how far we can go as a team this season.” Pre-season prep begins in Hamburg So far things have been going well as Leon and the coaching staff have been gameplanning often in preparation for the season.  “The coaching staff and players have been very welcoming, many of them have reached out and shown their support for me. As a quarterback, confidence from both your teammates and coaches is very important so I'm excited to give my all for them in return.” Competition drives Hamburg's QB1 Hamburg will have some exciting pieces around the first year ELF quarterback, including veteran receiver Terryon Robinson. Other european talent such as  Tamsir Seck, Jakob Neugebauer, and Chrisman Kyei should all be weapons for Leon to lean on in 2025.  “The competition, simple as that. I am just excited to get back on the field and compete with a motivated team and staff.”Get Your Tickets For the 2025 Championship game!

In the coming month of April, we will be releasing the top 100 graded players of the 2024 season according to sportsmetrics. The grades reflect the individual's performance on the field. Grading System for Players and Teams SportsMetrics Grades evaluate both individual players and teams based on their performance in a single game as well as the entire season. The grades are designed to provide an accurate and comprehensive assessment of a player’s performance in different categories such as passing, rushing, receiving, defense, and kicking. Each category is further divided into player positions, such that each player’s performance is evaluated against other players in the same position. The grades are designed to be scalable for different player positions, meaning that a linebacker’s performance is compared to other linebackers in each category. Weighted Metrics Each category in the SportsMetrics grading system sets different weights on statistical in-game metrics. These metrics are then weighted based on their importance to the category to provide an accurate evaluation of a player’s performance. This ensures that the grading system is fair and objective, and the players’ performance is evaluated based on the metrics that matter the most in each category. Comparison and Scaling To compare and scale the teams’ and players’ performance, SportsMetrics Grades use a specially fitted sigmoid function. This function ensures that the grades are scaled appropriately, and the players’ performance is evaluated accurately based on the metrics in each category. The stats are compared with the overall distribution of league performance in each category and then weighted by the category weights. Limitations While SportsMetrics Grades provides an accurate and unbiased evaluation of the players and teams, it has some limitations. Currently, it is technically not possible to rate offensive line players accurately. Thus, those players were rated by expert opinions. Additionally, the ratings for defensive backs should be read cautiously, as the best defensive backs may not have the best numbers since quarterbacks try to avoid throwing in their direction. Don't miss a single ELF Game - Get your Game Pass Players Overview ELF x Sports Metrics Top 100 Graded Players - #100-#91 ELF x Sports Metrics Top 100 Graded Players - #90-#81 ELF x Sports Metrics Top 100 Graded Players - #80-#71 ELF x Sports Metrics Top 100 Graded Players - #70-#61 ELF x Sports Metrics Top 100 Graded Players - #60-#51  

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. One team that ELF fans will remember from the very beginning are the Hamburg Sea Devils. The team from northern Germany reached the Championship Game in both 2021 and 2022. But the Sea Devils failed to win a title. Things were supposed to get better, but instead the team missed the playoffs two years in a row. Reason enough for the front office to react and present some top signings this offseason. Record player Kyle Kitchens for the Sea Devils First and foremost: Kyle Kitchens. The 29-year-old is the best pass rusher in ELF history. Kitchens not only recorded the most career sacks in the league with 60, but also set a new single-season record with 16.5 sacks last season. He will be the heart of the Sea Devils defensive line next season. With his understanding of the game, football IQ and raw power, Kitchens can single-handedly keep multiple opposing O-linemen busy. This creates important space and time for his teammates. A Kyle Kitchens makes every team and every D-Line better. Quarterbacks watch out! Kyle Kitchens transferred from the Berlin Thunder to the Sea Devils ©Eric Muehle. New QB Micah Leon gets new Playmaker Terryon Robinson On offense, a new quarterback was needed. Similar to the entire team, the signal callers in particular fell far short of expectations last season. Micah Leon is now set to improve the situation. The 24-year-old played for seven years at various renowned colleges, including the University of Connecticut and the Florida Gators. He also took part in mini camps with an NFL team, the Miami Dolphins. Leon therefore brings a lot of experience with to Hamburg. While Kitchens can take the defense to a new level, Leon can do the same with the offense. If this works, the Hamburg Sea Devils can be very dangerous next season. He will be supported by an ELF-tested playmaker. Terryon Robinson proved to be a reliable playmaker with strong hands for the Istanbul Rams (2022), Cologne Centurions (2023) and most recently the Helvetic Mercenaries (2024). Robinson is now set for a very special reunion in Hamburg: the 30-year-old attended fourth grade in the USA together with Kyle Kitchens. QB Micah Leon (l.) and his new receiver Terryon Robinson (r.) ©Jordan Herald/ Aileen Uzoma Elite Cornerback Roedion Henrique On defense, the Sea Devils brought in a new elite cornerback with Roedion Henrique. The Dutchman has already spent four seasons in the ELF and made several splash plays for the Leipzig Kings and Fehervar Enthroners. The former ELF All-Star has already made twelve interceptions, three of which he returned for a touchdown. In the Sea Devils jersey, he will probably frustrate many opposing wide receivers next season. And there are quite a few of them in a top-class North Division. An experienced and talented cornerback is of enormous value to the secondary. Henrique could do his part to further stabilize the Sea Devils defense. Roedion Henrique can strengthen the HSD Secondary. ©Petra Kutasi Homegrown talent: Old friend Jean-Claude Madin Cerezo - TE-Star Levi Kruse  In addition to outstanding imports, the Sea Devils also presented their fans with great homegrown talent, which should lay the foundation for success. Jean-Claude Madin Cerezo, an old friend, has returned. The wide receiver was one of the faces of the franchise's great ELF success in 2021 and 2022. Noah Bomba, who already has championship experience, was signed as another wideout. In 2021, he became the first ELF champion in history with Frankfurt Galaxy.  2022. Cerezo can look back on several years of ELF experience and is considered a reliable target. QB Micah Leon could benefit greatly from this.  Just like from star tight end Levi Kruse. The German national player is considered one of the best at his position and also a good catcher. Kruse also impresses with his strong blocking.  Levi Kruse (l.) and Jean-Claude Madin Cerezo ©Jonas Wicker. Eric Schlomm: One of the best kickers in the ELF Eric Schlomm in particular stands out in the special teams. The homegrown kicker is one of the best in the European League of Football. In three years in the ELF, he scored 190 points and sank almost 80 percent of his field goals and 85 percent of his points after touchdowns. Schlemm is a German national player and was named Special Teams Player of the Year in 2022. He was also selected to the All-Star Team in the same year. Knows how to kick a football: Sea Devils Captain Eric Schlomm ©Maxime Lepihif. Outstanding Head Coach Shuan Fatah takes over But a good squad also needs good coaches. And in Shuan Fatah, the Sea Devils have secured probably the best coach in Germany and one of the best in Europe as head coach. The 57-year-old has won numerous titles, including five NFL Europe World Bowls. He even won one of them with the Hamburg Sea Devils in 2007. Fatah later became head coach of the Austrian national team. He then took over the German national team from 2023 to 2024. Experience Head Coach: Shuan Fatah ©Rasmus Nahrmann. At the Sea Devils, Fatah is supported by his long-time companion Lee Rowland. They have worked together for many years on different teams. In Hamburg, Rowland will be the new offensive coordinator.  Ray Woodard takes over on defense. The US coach formed a strong defense for the Madrid Bravos last season. Prior to that, he was active as a coach in the NFL Europe and at various US colleges.  Season objectives - Sea Devils finally back in the playoffs? After two disappointing years with records of 4-8 (2023) and 2-10 (2024), the Sea Devils' goal for the upcoming season should be clear: finally reach the playoffs again. To do so, however, they will first have to pass the current champions Rhein Fire in a strong North Division. In addition, a hungry newcomer is waiting with Nordic Storm. And Berlin Thunder, who also disappointed last season, are also likely to be hungry for success.  However, the front office has proven this offseason how serious they are about the squad. The fans in Hamburg can look forward to some exciting football. And perhaps they will finally be able to celebrate success again. Don't miss a single ELF Game - Get your Game Pass!

As March rolls on the ELF’s season five kickoff is getting closer and closer. With just a few weeks of preparation left teams are making the finishing touches to their rosters and coaching staff preparing for the May 17th kickoff. Rhein Fire add national champion OC Rhein Fire head coach Jim Tomsula has added Ed Warinner to his staff as the offensive coordinator for the back to back champions. Warinner has spent 30 years coaching college football and has been the OC at Ohio State and Kansas. He won the national championship with the Buckeyes under head coach Urban Meyer back in 2014.  Frankfurt adds two NFL players! The Frankfurt Galaxy have been busy this week announcing their final A-import spot with NFL, CFL, and USFL veteran Channing Stribling. Stribling was an all-USFL defensive back in 2022 and has had several stints in the NFL and CFL. He now reunited with his USFL head coach Bart Andrus in Frankfurt. The other NFL player coming to Frankfurt is a familiar face in Austrian running back Sandro Platzgummer. The former New York Giant returns to the Galaxy after putting up 853 total yards and 6 total touchdowns in 11 games last season.  Raiders add American defensive back Dijon Walls Walls had an outstanding college career at Morningside University, where he played from 2022 to 2025. Over 38 career games, he recorded 123 tackles, 29 pass break-ups, and an eye-popping 19 interceptions. Walls is the final American import for the raiders joining former NFL player Aaron Maddox in the Raiders Tirol secondary.  Madrid gets their first defensive American import Former D1 defensive back Dy’Vonne Inyang is headed to Madrid to join the Bravos. The former UTEP player had a solid career at the University of Texas El-Paso with 80 career tackles, 2 interceptions, and a sack.  He spent last season playing in Germany with the Paderborn Dolphins. Now he joins head coach Andrew Weidinger in the Spanish capital .      Berlin Thunder add NFL/CFL champions to their coaching staff The Berlin Thunder have brought in two assistant coaches with impressive resumes to work with head coach Jag Bal this season.  At offensive coordinator Berlin will be led by Canadian Football league legend Adam Rita. Rita won four Grey Cup championships in Canada as a head coach in the 1990’s and two more as an executive in the 2000’s. He also has experience coaching in the ELF, coaching the Barcelona Dragons through their inaugural season 2021.  Art Valero will be the offensive line coach for the Thunder. The veteran coach has over a decade of experience in pro-football as an offensive line and running backs coach.  Stuttgart Surge re-sign inebacker duo Omar Dittrich and Luis Leatherman The Stuttgart Surge continue to build their roster for the upcoming season. With the return of Omar Dittrich and Luis Leatherman, they secure two important rotational players for their linebacker corps. Both players add depth to the squad and have the potential to make an impact on the field.   Vienna Vikings run it back with Jan Phillip Bombek The Vienna Vikings are bringing back former All-Star defensive end. Jan Phillip Bombek. Last season the homegrown talent had 6.5 tackles for a loss and 2.5 sacks as he battled injuries throughout the season. The Former ELF All-Star returns to Veinna as they reassemble much of last years team to make another run at the title in 2025. Bombek has already participated in a total of 42 ELF games, 29 of which he began as a starter. He made 84 tackles, including 36 for loss and 28.5 sacks Hamburg Sea Devils add Aussie import linebacker The Hamburg Sea Devils have signed Austrailian linebacker Harrison Hobson. Hobson played last season with the Cologne Centurions making 34 tackles, one sack, one forced fumble, and three tackles for a loss in seven games last year.  Munich Ravens add offensive line talent At just 23 years old, British offensive lineman Daniel Bilesanmi has already made a name for himself in the GFL. His strong performances earned him a spot in the league’s “Offensive Line of the Week” selection twice. With his skills and experience, he will be a valuable addition to the Ravens’ offensive front. Now he joins the Munich Ravens hoping to take his game to the next level.  Get Your Tickets to the 2025 ELF Championship!

The Hamburg Sea Devils have completed their group of import players by signing linebacker Harrison Hobson as their final international addition. Hobson is no stranger to the European League of Football, as he played for the Cologne Centurions last season. In his seven games with the Centurions, he recorded 34 tackles, one sack, and three tackles for loss.   Stronger linebacker group   With Hobson, the Sea Devils add another high-quality player to their linebacker unit. He joins Jonell Patrice Pelie, who played for the Madrid Bravos last season, and Benjamin Rokundo Mulindahabi, who gained his first ELF experience with the Enthroners in 2023. Together, they form a strong group of import linebackers for the upcoming season.   Defensive identity returns?   The Sea Devils continue to strengthen their defense, now with six import players on the defensive side of the ball. Head coach Shuan Fatah, known for his defensive mindset, seems determined to bring back the strong defensive identity that defined the Sea Devils in their first three seasons. Whether this strategy will be successful remains to be seen.“I am looking forward to representing Hamburg and building the organization with all my teammates to be a top team contender. Hamburg will shock the league this year,” said Hobson, expressing his excitement about joining the team. Don't miss a single game - Get your Game Pass now!

The Hamburg Sea Devils have presented a new name for their defensive line. Edge rusher Tarik Krajačić will join the team from northern Germany.  “I'm incredibly proud to represent my hometown on such a big stage,” says Krajačić. He adds: “It's a unique opportunity to compete with the best players in Europe and show what I'm made of. The Sea Devils offer me the opportunity to develop my talent at the highest level while honoring my roots. The feeling of playing for my city makes every moment on the field special and motivates me to always give my best.” The 31-year-old Homegrown was most recently with the Hamburg Huskies in the German Football League 2 for three years. At the Sea Devils, Krajačić offers defensive coordinator Ray Woodard more options in the width of the D-Line. The star of the line is clearly Kyle Kitchens. The three-time ELF Defensive Player of the Year transferred from the Berlin Thunder to the Sea Devils this offseason. Don't miss a single ELF Game - get your Game pass

The European League of Football finished its fourth season. It is now time to figure out what teams will move in the right direction for the fifth season in 2025! Will it be teams with previous losing records emerging as contenders? Will Rhein Fire stay dominant? Who are the best players coming into the season? When are you able to draft your lineups for Fantasy Football? Those are questions that you may ask yourself and we are here to give you the best possible answer! If you have a question and want it to be answered in a future article, please look out on the league’s social channels every Monday. iamcadeyoung: How do you get recruited? There are a lot of different ways to get recruited by a team of the European League of Football. The easiest and most common way for homegrown European players is to play for a regional football team and then perform at try-outs. However, if you are already a proven player or even compete(d) in the United States collegiate system, teams can also review your film. If you want to reach out to a team, feel free to contact them via their respective team websites.  b1ak3varg__: Just getting into the ELF and still can’t decide on a team! What is an underdog team like Buffalo?  Thank you for your question. The European League of Football will kick off its fifth season with 16 teams in 2025. There are a lot of great storylines coming into this year because of multiple moving parts. However, if you are looking for a team that was close to reaching the playoffs or lost in the wild card round over the last years, it is the Madrid Bravos.  In their first ELF season, the Madrid Bravos came up swinging. By doing the unthinkable as a new franchise, the Spanish team even made it to the playoffs but lost the 2024 ELF Champions Rhein Fire 40-10 in the Wild Card Round. But they have hired Rhein Fire’s offensive coordinator Andrew Weidinger as their new head coach. Alongside other great hires, the Spanish franchise made some blockbuster moves and signed impact players from different teams all over the European continent.  So, if you want to jump their a bandwagon before the Madrid Bravos take off, now is your time to join the party!  j.ravelo__: When do rosters usually get finalized by?  Thank you for your question! The roster of a team in the European League of Football gets finalized close to the start of the season. This year, the ELF kicks off on the 17th May. So, you can expect your favorite team to have a finalized roster a few weeks prior. However, keep in mind that rosters in American football contain a large number of players which is why there will always be some fluctuation, e.g. player signings, cuts or even injuries. © European League of Football 

The Hamburg Sea Devils have officially set the venue for their highly anticipated matchup against long-time rivals, the Berlin Thunder. On June 7, 2025, the Sea Devils will host their second home game of the season at Stadion Hoheluft, a stadium known for its intense atmosphere and thrilling football action.   This game carries extra emotional weight, not just because of the rivalry, but also due to the presence of Kyle Kitchens, last year’s Defensive Player of the Year. Kitchens, who played for Berlin Thunder for the past three seasons, was twice named the league’s best defensive player and selected for the First All-Star Team in all three years. Now wearing the Sea Devils' jersey, he will face his former team for the first time - adding even more excitement to an already heated showdown.   Sea Devils Excited for the Clash   Sea Devils General Manager Mark Weitz expressed his enthusiasm for playing another game at Stadion Hoheluft:   "We are thrilled to host our second home game against Berlin Thunder at Stadion Hoheluft. This venue provides an incredible atmosphere for our fans and players. After last season, we aim to come back even stronger in 2025 - and with our fans behind us, this historic rivalry with Berlin Thunder will be an absolute highlight."  Over the years, Stadion Hoheluft has been the stage for many unforgettable battles between these two franchises. Fans from both sides will be eager to see if this game lives up to the history of this fierce rivalry.

In its history, the ELF has already had a number of top athletes. Some of them change teams or leagues. Others end their active football career. This is also the case after the 2024 season.  All retirements in the overview. Aleksandar Milanovic  The Vienna Vikings lose a captain. Offensive tackle Aleksandar Milanovic ends his pro football career. The 33-year-old Austrian played all three ELF years for the Vikings. He made the All-Star team in 2022 and 2023 and got voted the Man of Honor of the Year 2024. He played a total of 32 ELF games and was one of the Vikings' absolute leading players. Luis Horvath But the team lose another captain in Luis Horvath. The linebacker is retiring from football at the age of 27. Hovrath was one of the most important players on the Vikings defense. Together with the team, he became ELF Champion in 2022. In three years in the league, he collected 165 tackles.  Jakub Mazan Polish wide receiver Jakub Mazan has officially ended his career. After five years with the Wroclaw Panthers, the 32-year-old and the team share a very special bond. After all, Mazan caught the Panthers' first ELF touchdowns. Mazan announced the end of his career in 2022, only to return for the 2024 season. In total, the wideout played 31 ELF games in which he caught 107 passes for 1408 yards and 12 touchdowns.  Mazan also played for the Polish national team. He left it open for the opportunity to join their flag football team.  Kamil Ruta After 18 years, Kamil Ruta's football career comes to an end. The captain of the Wroclaw Panthers and the Polish national team was one of the most significant players in Polish football. The 38-year-old defensive tackle was Polish champion several times with the Panthers. Ruta also made his league debut for the Polish ELF team. He played a total of 40 games.  Philéas Pasqualini  Running back Philéas Pasqualini will leave the ELF after four years and end his career. The Frenchman began his journey in 2021 with the Wroclaw Panthers. He put in a strong performance in his very first season, which earned him a direct selection to the All-Star team.  In 2022, he moved to Stuttgart Surge, in 2024 to the Sea Devils. Pasqualini played 30 ELF games. He ran for 1597 yards and twelve touchdowns. Jason Aguemon Paris Musketeers captain Jason Aguemon has decided to end his career.” It's time for the entire Musketeers family to pay tribute to an exceptional player, captain, and human being,” says a statement from the team. The 32-year-old Frenchman made his ELF debut in 2021 for the Lepzig Kings. The running back then played for Rhein Fire in 2022 before moving to the Musketeers in 2023. In 39 ELF games, Aguemon ran for 1618 yards and 12 touchdowns. Florian Eichhorn Tight end Florian Eichhorn has ended his career. The 30-year-old spent four years in the ELF. It all started in 2021 with the Cologne Centurions. In 2022, the German decided to move to Rhein Fire, where he played until the end of his career. He played 27 games for the German team and became ELF champion in 2023 and 2024. Lorenz Regler Wide receiver Lorenz Regler became champion with Frankfurt Galaxy in 2021. After two more years in purple, the German moved to the Munich Ravens last season. Now the 29-year-old is putting the finishing touches on his career. Regler appeared in 44 ELF games, catching 117 passes for 1528 yards and 18 touchdowns. Robert Werner  Werner spent over ten years as a kicker in Munich. When he entered the league, the 37-year-old became part of the Ravens in 2023. After two good seasons, it's over. Werner ends his career and at what a time: He played an outstanding season, converting eleven of his 14 field goals and 58 of his 68 points after touchdowns. He was nominated for Special Teams Player of the Year. Although he did not win the award, he still chose a great end to his career.  Jebrai Regan Jebrau Regan will be missing from the Enthroners' defensive line next season. The 30-year-old edge rusher is retiring from active football. Regan spent two years in the ELF, both with the Enthroners. In 22 games, he recorded 104 tackles, including 32 for loss and 18 sacks. Overall he stayed eight years with the team. Darius Saint-Robinson With Darius Saint-Robinson, the ELF is losing a lot of experience. After all, the Helvetic Mercenaries cornerback has not only played for three ELF teams, but also in the NFL. From 2021 to 2022, Saint-Robinson played for the Wraclow Panthers, followed by a year with the Munich Ravens and most recently with the Mercenaries. Last season, he played all twelve games for his team. Jonathan Falk  A bitter loss for the Mercenaries. Middle linebacker and team captain Jonathan Falk ends his career. He was the heart of his defense and led the Swiss in tackles. Falk also collected the second most tackles in the league in his final football season. He was even named “Homegrown of the Year” at the ELF Honors. Falk already retired in 2019, but returned for the Mercenaries. “To inspire the young guys, to show, everything is possible,” he explained at the ELF Honors. Now the renewed retirement.  Watch all 2024 season highlights with the Game Pass! Sven Rieger  And another Galaxy player is retiring. Defensive linemen Rieger, joined the Galaxy in 2022. Since then, he has played 29 games, recording 61 tackles and nine sacks. Last season, the 36-year-old started every game.   Kevin Meier  Kevin Meier is the next Frankfurt player to end his career. The defensive end played 31 games for the Galaxy in the ELF. He was also part of the winning team that clinched the first ELF title of 2021. Off the pitch, the 33-year-old also supported the Galaxy as a physiotherapist. Thomas Fischbach  After three years with the Galaxy, Thomas Fischbach is also saying goodbye. In the ELF, the 31-year-old running back recorded 1025 rushing yards and seven touchdowns in 32 games. “Touchdown Thommy, you will always be part of the Purple Family and are always welcome in our stadium!”, Galaxy comments his farewell. Luca Hebel  Luca Hebel is leaving the Galaxy as part of the 2021 Championship team. The 24-year-old center was one of the Galaxy's key rotation players. “He has shaped the team and will forever be a part of the purple family,” announced Galaxy. Daniel Fanco Cruz  Daniel Franco Cruz, a Dragon from the very beginning, is leaving the board. The 32-year-old defensive tackle was already on the field in the Catalans' very first ELF season. In his final campaign, the captain played all twelve games, seven of which he started, and contributed 13 tackles and 1.5 sacks. In total, he can look back on over 20 years of football experience, which he will pass on as a coach in the future. From now on, he will be the assistant D-line coach for the Badalona Dracs. Get your tickets for the 2025 Championship Game here!

During the offseason, the teams of the European League of Football lose no time. This week, they also announced some more roster moves. An overview: Missing piece for the Sea Devils The Hamburg Sea Devils have already presented some good moves this offseason. What was still missing, however, was a quarterback. They have now found one in Micah Leon. US duo for the Centurions The Cologne Centurions presented two US imports this week. Firstly, Jeremy Moussa signed as the new QB1. An important target will be former college wide receiver Austin Osborn, who also signed with the German team. Raiders sign QB1 The Raiders Tirol have found their starting quarterback. Conor Miller returns to the ELF.   Musketeers bring back important piece  The Paris Musketeers have extended Stanley Zeregbe's contract. The Frenchman was an important piece of the Parisians' dominant defense las season. Thunder sign Offensive Rookie of the Year nominee Berlin Thunder has strengthened their running game. For this purpose, the team signed Emil Fuch. The 20-year-old was nominated for the Offensive Rookie of the Year award last season. Nordic Storm sign former ELF starter Nordic Storm has signed another top player from Sweden. Emil Hovde, who shone as a starter for the Berlin Thunder last season, has signed with the young franchise. Rhein Fire bring back US-Import Defensive back Darrius Nash will stay with Rhein Fire for another season. The current ELF Champion have extended the contract of the 25-year-old by one year. Don't miss a single ELF Game - get your Game Pass!

The Hamburg Sea Devils return to the Weserstadion in Bremen for their home game in the European League of Football on May 31, 2025. In this highly anticipated clash, the Sea Devils will face the Stuttgart Surge. Kickoff is at 18:00. As in the previous year, the Weser Stadium offers the perfect backdrop for a top-class football duel. The venue has already proven itself as a first-class venue for top matches in the past - and this time, too, it will inspire with its unique atmosphere. Mark Weitz, General Manager of the Hamburg Sea Devils, is enthusiastic: “The Weserstadion is a special place for us and our fans. Returning to Bremen gives us the opportunity to continue to spread the excitement of American football and create an unforgettable experience for our spectators. We're looking forward to feeling the energy of this stadium again and experiencing a great evening of football together with the fans.” The match against Stuttgart Surge promises sporting highlights. The Hamburg Sea Devils and Stuttgart will meet for the first time in the history of the European League of Football. Tickets for the game are now available on the official website of the Hamburg Sea Devils. Don't miss a single ELF Game - get your Game Pass!