The Helvetic Mercenaries have announced that former Pace University (NCAA DII) and Barcelona Dragons quarterback Carlton Aiken Jr. has signed for the 2024 European League of Football season.
During his three seasons at Pace, Aiken racked up records and honors, being named MVP of the NE10 conference as well as making the All-Conference team twice. He left university having thrown for 5,175 yards and 51 touchdowns as well as rushing for 1,822 yards and 20 scores over his 29-game tenure.
After a successful collegiate career in New York which saw Aiken break his university’s all-time passing and scoring records, the 6’2”, 220 pound dual-threat was a legitimate NFL prospect, declaring for the 2023 NFL Draft. Unfortunately, Aiken went undrafted and unsigned before making the decision to take his talents to Europe.
Aiken then took to the pros, joining the Silesia Rebels in Poland in 2023, taking the Polish Football League by storm. He took the Rebels on an undefeated streak, only falling at the final hurdle in the championship game, where the Lowlanders edged Silesia to win the Polish Bowl.
I didn’t get drafted, I didn’t get Signed and I didn’t get Invited to an NFL rookie Mini Camp. I decided to bet on myself and take the first contract I was offered so that I could get Pro Game Film. 2nd game film and stats! All I need is a opportunity!🙏🏾 #NFL #CFL #XFL #USFL pic.twitter.com/7DJFqj7VPU
— Carlton Aiken Jr (@Caiken_2) June 6, 2023
The New-Jersey native finished his short career in Poland with an impressive 28 total touchdowns without turning the ball over once, with a record of 4-1. He threw for 1,100 yards and 17 touchdowns while rushing for 700+ yards and 11 scores.
Aikens was picked up by the Barcelona Dragons as a short-term replacement for their quarterback, Conor Miller who was injured during the 2023 European League of Football season.
📊 TOP 3 plays of the Week 8!
1️⃣ First touchdown of Carlton Aiken Jr with Dragons.
2️⃣ Two-point conversion by Theo Landström.
3️⃣ Fumble recovered by Rodrigo Sanz.
Which play made you go 🤯? #BarcelonaDragons #FeelTheFire pic.twitter.com/PtuozwjJdh
— Barcelona Dragons (@Dragons_BCN) July 24, 2023
In his two ELF starts, he completed 25 passes for 354 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions, tallying up another 162 yards and one score on the ground.