AFI’s All-Europe Team: Defensive Backs – Monteze Latimore, Schwäbisch Hall Unicorns

Despite teams often refusing to throw in his direction, Schwäbisch Hall Unicorns defensive back Monteze Latimore still managed to find a way to the ball in the German Football League this year.

The Central Missouri (NCAA DII) alumnus led the GFL in pass breakups and placed second in interceptions, earning a well-deserved spot as this year’s AFI All-Europe Team.

Latimore earned Second Team All-MIAA honors while at Missouri racking up 176 tackles, 13 interceptions, 46 pass-breakups and four forced fumbles. His outstanding collegiate career got the attention of the Canadian Football League, and in 2019 he was signed to the Ottawa Redblacks before being cut during the pre-season and signing with the Schwäbisch Hall Unicorns.

After his arrival in Germany, the team and Latimore found out he was not eligible to play in the GFL due to his time in the CFL. Despite this setback the team were keen on the defensive back and agreed to terms with him for the 2020 season, which was canceled due to COVID-19. So, when Latimore suited up for his first game with the Unicorns in 2021 it was an auspicious time for both himself and the team; and boy, was he worth the wait.

The Missourian was an integral part of the Unicorns defense this year. A defense that allowed fewer touchdowns and yards-per-game than any other team in the GFL. His physical style of play and leadership helped Schwäbisch Hall to an undefeated regular season, falling only to the Dresden Monarchs at the final hurdle in a nail-biting German Bowl loss.

Latimore truly is a do-it-all defensive back. Not only can he shut down the opponents’ number one threat in man coverage, but he can also come down and set a hard edge in the run game. The 6’0, 190-pound defender proved to be a thorn in the side of any offensive coordinator this year and will surely be one next year.