

NFL coaches abundant in the 2025 ELF season
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
25.04.2025, 09:45

Top 100 Players of the 2024 ELF Season: Rank #3
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 take a first look at the podium with #3.
#3 A.J. Wentland
Middle linebackers are a fundamental part of the game and yet are often overlooked. A.J. Wentland has great value not only to the Wroclaw Panthers game, but to the entire franchise.
In a very mixed season, Wentland stood out with his great motivational skills and strong performances. The US American even set a new league season tackling record with 164 tackles. Unsurprisingly, Wentland was selected for the All-Star team at the end of the season - his third appearance in his third ELF year.
The 30-year-old defender's numbers read like a picture book: twelve games, 166 tackles, including 13.5 for loss, 4.5 sacks, one interception, five pass deflections and four forced fumbles. Wentland even suddenly took over the offense and scored a touchdown. Unbelievable. No surprise that the Panthers have extended their contract with Wentland this offseason.
A.J. Wentland takes the #3 spot in the ELF Top 100 after a fantastic 2024 season.
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24.04.2025, 12:30

Wroclaw Panthers sign Laurynas Orlovicius
The Wroclaw Panthers have made a strong move to boost their defense by signing Latvian defensive lineman Laurynas Orlovicius. Orlovicius is a well-known name in the ELF, having played for the Fehérvár Enthroners and the Raiders Tirol.
Proven talent from previous teams
Last season, Orlovicius only played in three games for the Enthroners, but he quickly showed his talent on the field. Despite the limited playing time, he delivered solid numbers with 17 tackles, 2 sacks, 3 tackles for loss, one safety, and two fumble recoveries.
Before joining Fehérvár, Orlovicius also impressed during his time with the Raiders Tirol. His performances there helped build his reputation as a strong and reliable defender. With his experience and skills, the Panthers hope he will play a key role in their defense this season.
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23.04.2025, 10:00

Top 100 Players of the 2024 ELF Season: Rank #10
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 take a look at the player ranked #10.
#10 Dawid Brzozowski
The 2024 season did not go as planned for the Wroclaw Panthers. The team started the year with hopes for the playoffs — or even the Championship Game — but faced many challenges. Changes at the quarterback position and in the coaching staff caused a slow start. However, the Panthers fought back and finished the season with a 6-6 record. A key part of this comeback was running back Dawid Brzozowski.
Brzozowski had another great season after already showing his talent in 2023. In 12 games, he rushed for an impressive 1,119 yards and scored 8 touchdowns. With his powerful runs, he helped the Panthers take control of games and forced opponents to play on their terms.
The 2023 Homegrown of the Year and First Team All-Star will return to the Panthers for the 2025 season, where he will play alongside quarterback DJ Irons to help lead the offense once again.
If he keeps playing like this, Brzozowski could become one of the best running backs in ELF history.Don't miss a single game - Get your Game Pass now!
17.04.2025, 12:45

Wrocław Panthers - Building momentum for season 2025
With our new article series, we introduce all 16 teams of the European League of Football for the 2025 season. Today, we take a closer look at the Wrocław Panthers who are poised to make a significant run for the playoffs this season. With strategic acquisitions, the extensions of key players, and a reinforced coaching staff, the Panthers aim for a postseason appearance.
American QB DJ Irons and WR Darrell Stewart Jr. lead the team
The Panthers have secured quarterback Demarcus "DJ" Irons to spearhead their offense. Standing at 1.93 meters and weighing 100 kg, Irons brings a dual-threat capability. His athleticism and versatility are expected to bring the Panthers’ offense to new heights.
Complementing Irons is wide receiver Darrell Stewart Jr., a former Stuttgart Surge and Michigan State standout known for his speed and agility. Stewart's addition aims to enhance the Panthers' aerial attack, providing a reliable target for Irons. Last season, the veteran struggled with injuries and was limited to only eight games, putting up 367 yards and 6 total touchdowns for the Surge. In 2023 Stewart was a key part of the Surge's run to the ELF championship game, putting up 754 yards and 5 touchdowns on 59 catches in only eight games. On the defensive side, the Panthers roll with one of the most productive and steady players in the entire European League of Football: A.J. Wentland. The American linebacker will come back for another season with the Polish franchise to yet make another case for Defensive Player of the Year with his freakish athleticism and production.
European imports - Atilla Isik signs on defense
On the defensive side, the Panthers have enlisted Turkish defensive back Atilla Isik, the 2021 ELF Defensive Rookie of the Year. Isik's experience and playmaking abilities are anticipated to bolster a secondary that faced challenges in the previous season.
Homegrown Talent - Brzozowski and Jabłoński Anchor the Team
Running back Dawid Brzozowski remains a cornerstone of the Panthers' offense. After recording 1,139 rushing yards and eight touchdowns last season, Brzozowski's re-signing ensures continuity and a potent ground game.
Defensive back Maciej Jabłoński also returns, bringing with him a record of 38 tackles, nine pass deflections, and four interceptions from the previous season. His continued presence adds stability and experience to the defensive unit and a more than solid homegrown player.
Coaching staff - Kuligowski's vision for excellence
Head Coach Craig Kuligowski enters the season with a clear objective: to mold the Panthers into ELF champions. Emphasizing the recruitment of experienced staff and targeted player acquisitions, Kuligowski aims to enhance the team's competitiveness across all aspects of the game. "We’re in the process of hiring a more experienced staff so that we can give our players the best coaching in the ELF," he stated in an interview upon his extension.
The coaching roster has been further strengthened with the additions of Bryant Foster as Defensive Backs Coach and Co-Defensive Coordinator, Derek Rickart as Defensive Line Coach, and Kurt Page as Quarterbacks Coach. These appointments reflect a commitment to comprehensive player development and tactical refinement.
A season full of potential
With a blend of seasoned imports, steadfast homegrown players, and a revitalized coaching staff, the Wrocław Panthers are well-positioned for a competitive 2025 season. The integration of new talent, strategic leadership in coaches, and the extension of game-changing players sets the stage for the Panthers to challenge for the ELF title and establish themselves as a formidable force in the league.
© Łukasz Skwiot
16.04.2025, 16:00

Top 100 Players of the 2024 ELF Season: Ranks 30 to 21
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 focus only on performance on the field — including consistency, impact, and position-specific stats. Today, we take a look at the players ranked from #30 to #21.
#30 Tobias Bonatti
Austrian running back Tobias Bonatti had another great season for the Raiders Tirol, even though an injury stopped him from playing the full year. In limited games, he still rushed for 750 yards and scored 13 touchdowns — earning his spot in the Top 100.
Sven Breidenbach is one of the best offensive tackles in the league. ©Frederick Loewer
#29 Sven Breidenbach
Sven Breidenbach is one of the key players behind Rhein Fire’s success. His strong performance on the offensive line helped the team win back-to-back ELF Championships. Breidenbach is respected across the European football scene.
#28 Adrià Botella Moreno
Tight end Adrià Botella Moreno is considered one of the best to ever play in the ELF. In 2024, he once again showed his talent with the Wroclaw Panthers. Even though the team had a mixed season, Moreno’s personal performance stood out.
#27 Aleksandar Borkovic
Serbian defensive back Aleksandar Borkovic impressed with his strong play for the Prague Lions in 2024. Now, with new homegrown rules in place, the Fehérvár Enthroners have added him to their roster as a valuable local talent.
Rookie of the Year Milan Spiller is ready to go all out again in 2025. ©Just Shots
#26 Milan Spiller
Milan Spiller made history in his rookie ELF season by becoming the first European wide receiver to reach over 1,000 receiving yards. The Offensive Rookie of the Year will return to the Helvetic Mercenaries in 2025 as a top target for QB Isaiah Weed.
#25 Jadrian Clark
Championship Game MVP Jadrian Clark had a quieter season statistically compared to his 2023 MVP year — but he stepped up when it mattered most. His leadership and clutch play helped his team once again. Now, he joins the Nordic Storm as one of the ELF’s top quarterbacks.
#24 Dauson Dales
Linebacker Dauson Dales finished his career on a high note with the Paris Musketeers. He helped the team reach the semifinals and had a very strong final season before officially retiring from football.
#23 Omari Williams
Omari Williams has been in the ELF since day one — and now he's a three-time champion. Known for his consistency and ability to make big plays, Williams is tied as the all-time interception leader in the ELF. In 2025, he’ll aim to take the record for himself.
Linebacker Zachary Blair played for the Milano Seamen in 2024. ©Marc Junge
#22 Zachary Blair
A true veteran of the league, Zach Blair played for several teams — including the Surge, Rams, and Centurions. In 2024, he suited up for the Milano Seamen and delivered strong performances, even though injuries shortened his season.
#21 Karri Pajarinen
Finnish running back Karri Pajarinen had a fantastic 2024 season for the Vienna Vikings. He totaled over 1,300 all-purpose yards and proved to be a dangerous weapon both on the ground and in the passing game — making him one of the top European imports in the league.
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!
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15.04.2025, 18:00

Almost done - get ready for the final roster moves
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.
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14.04.2025, 09:45

Top 100 Players of the 2024 ELF Season: Ranks 80 to 71
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 #80 to #71.
#80 Hugo Dyrendahl
What a rookie year for the 26-year-old. The linebacker was able to establish himself right away with Frankfurt Galaxy, starting all twelve games and recording 135 tackles. He even made it to the All-Star team. Despite his big role, Dyrendahl had to answer the call of home. The Swedish native will play for Nordic Storm next season.
#79 Juan Flores-Calderon
In a rather disappointing Milano Seamen team, Flores-Calderon was a real bright spot. The 21-year-old wide receiver collected 732 receiving yards and eight touchdowns. The 2023 Offensive Rookie of the Year will also be seen in the ELF next season. But then with the Madrid Bravos.
©Sergio Bisi.
#78 Ken Hike Jr.
The free safety joined the Vienna Vikings late after spending some time in Switzerland, but still had a direct impact. Especially in terms of turnovers. In five games, he made two interceptions, forced a fumble and recovered three more. He also had eleven pass deflections. Next season, Hike Jr. will prove this talent with the Prague Lions.
©Alexandre Bertrand.
#77 Krzystof Wis
The middle linebacker is one of the cornerstones of the Wroclaw Panthers' defense. Together with superstar A.J. Wentland, Wis makes life difficult for opposing running backs. The 37-year-old veteran recorded 78 tackles, including ten for loss and 6.5 sacks last season.
#76 Jakub Smutný
Defensive tackle Jakub Smutný also likes to bring running backs to the ground. The 28-year-old Czech had his breakthrough last season and more than doubled his number of tackles. The Prague Lions rewarded this with a contract extension.
©Jakub Platenik
#75 Nicolas Khandar
After a rookie season with only four games as a backup, the running back celebrated his breakthrough last season. The 31-year-old recorded 686 rushing yards and four touchdowns. After two years with Stuttgart Surge, the Frenchman returns to his home country and joins the Paris Musketeers.
74 Flamur Simon
What a year for Flamur Simon. The linebacker established himself at Rhein Fire, became a starter, put in outstanding performances and played a big part in Rhein Fire celebrating their second ELF Championship title in a row. So it's no wonder that the German extended his contract this offseason.
©Lina Bollig
#73 Raul Cernuda Pastor
Raul Cernuda Pastor showed potential with the Barcelona Dragons in 2023 and performed well with the Madrid Bravos in 2024. The homegrown tight end established himself as a starter and contributed five touchdowns. The 28-years-old even made it to our Homegrown Team of the Year.
72 Luke Glenna
The US import was an important cornerstone of a strong Madrid Bravos defense. As a result, the safety was selected to the All-Star team — just like the year before for the Barcelona Dragons. Now the 25-year-old is ready for a new adventure and joins Nordic Storm.
©Maxime Le Pihif
#71 Nicolai Schumann
The Berlin Thunder homegrown is one of the best tight ends in the league. The 33-year-old veteran has already been voted onto the ELF All-Star Team twice.
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10.04.2025, 15:00

ELF x Sports Metrics Top 100 Graded Players - Explained
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.
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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
08.04.2025, 10:15

A.J. Wentland on Panthers' season: “You guys will be surprised”
The 2024 season was an emotional rollercoaster for the Wroclaw Panthers. After an impressive and successful 2023, the team faced many ups and downs. However, linebacker A.J. Wentland sees the season as something to build on.
“Our last season was 6-6. We know that we could have easily made the playoffs with just a few different scores. The games were very close,” Wentland explained.
Looking ahead to the new season, he remains confident: “Now we’re excited to get out there and show everyone that we belong at the top.”
Panthers feel underrated
During a conversation on the ELF Live Show with hosts Nick Alfieri and Matt Bressington, American defensive back Devan Burrell was asked if the Panthers feel underappreciated. He responded with confidence.
“It’s a ‘prove it’ thing. Nobody is going to give us anything if we haven’t earned it yet. I feel like that puts a chip on the shoulders of the guys we play with here, and it puts a chip on my shoulder too,” Burrell said.
Instead of feeling discouraged, Burrell takes the lack of recognition as motivation. “It pushes me to work even harder,” he added.
Defensive back and return specialist Devan Burrell is one of the biggest playmakers for the Panthers. ©Lukasz Skwiot
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24.03.2025, 10:15

Wroclaw Panthers name Jared Burton as new offensive coordinator
The Wrocław Panthers have announced Jared Burton as their new Offensive Coordinator and Offensive Line Coach for the 2025 season. Burton replaces Greg Studrawa, who is unable to coach due to personal reasons.
A coach with experience
Burton brings over 15 years of coaching experience at the college level. Most recently, he worked as the Quarterbacks and Offensive Pass Game Coordinator in the spring of 2023 before being promoted to Offensive Coordinator in May.
Before that, he coached at Mississippi Valley State University, where he started as Wide Receivers Coach in 2022 and was promoted to Offensive Coordinator, Quarterbacks, and Wide Receivers Coach during the season. Under his leadership, the team had key wins, including a nationally televised victory over Alabama A&M and a dominant performance against Prairie View A&M.
A strong coaching background
Burton has coached at multiple universities, working with wide receivers, quarterbacks, special teams, and running backs. He has experience at Mississippi Gulf Coast CC, Cisco College, Augustana, and Kentucky State University. While at Augustana in 2019, he mentored All-Conference wide receiver Sean Engle and helped the team reach the NCAA Division II Playoffs.
His coaching career began at Northern Colorado, where he worked with wide receivers, tight ends, and kickers, as well as helping with recruiting operations. Before coaching, Burton played quarterback at New Mexico Military Institute and later walked on at UTEP.
A new chapter in Wrocław
Now, Burton is set to bring his offensive expertise to the Wrocław Panthers. With his deep knowledge of the game and experience developing players, the Panthers hope he will build a strong offensive unit for the 2025 season. Fans will be excited to see how Burton’s leadership impacts the team as they prepare for another competitive year in the ELF.
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17.03.2025, 11:00

Former ELF star becomes highest-paid NFL special teamer
KaVontae Turpin has reached the next milestone of his NFL career. The former European League of Football player signs a new contract with the NFL team Dallas Cowboys for three years and 18 million US dollars.
This makes the 28-year-old the highest-paid special teamer in the NFL, according to "bleacherreport". Turpin made his ELF debut for the Wroclaw Panthers as a wide receiver in 2021. He was particularly impressive as a return specialist. Turpin averaged 35 yards per return and had a monster game against the Hamburg Sea Devils, totaling 293 yards and two touchdowns. His performance drew the attention of scouts from the New Jersey Generals of the United States Football League. Turpin continued to deliver and finished the season as MVP. The Dallas Cowboys took notice and gave him a three-year contract.
Turpin quickly gained a major role in Dallas. His dynamic and consistent returns have already earned him two nominations for the NFL Pro Bowl. In 2024, he also saw more and more snaps as a wide receiver. Now the next milestone for the former ELF star.
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More ELF stars on their way to the NFL
However, Turpin is not the only former ELF player to have made the leap to America and the NFL. In addition to the wide receiver, Adedayo Odeleye (former Berlin Thunder) recently signed a new contract with the Baltimore Ravens. Cornerback Marcel Dabo (former Stuttgart Surge) plays for the Indianapolis Colts.
In addition, a large number of young ELF players are competing for a possible future in the North American football league in this year's NFL International Pathway Program. Among them is Bastian Roppelt, who revealed in an exclusive ELF interview that he wants to play “the best version of myself”.
A dream has already come true for Stuttgart Surge kicker Lenny Krieg. And Leander Wiegand also has the chance to make it into the NFL via the program. He wants to give it his all, he reveals in an interview with ELF: “I also want to represent my country with discipline and work ethic. Being on time, making a strong impression, and always giving my best are things I take very seriously.”
12.03.2025, 07:30

Mailbag Monday - We answer YOUR questions!
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
03.03.2025, 19:15

Vikings Captain Aleksandar Milanovic says goodbye - All retirements after the 2024 season
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.
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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.
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02.03.2025, 15:00