By William Rini
The Pittsburgh Maulers newest addition at running back and former European League of Football (ELF) star, Madre London, is showing off his raw talent as the USFL season looks forward to an exciting finish. Although the Maulers have had a rough season and now sit with a record of 1-7 in the North division, London has been a much-needed bright spot for this struggling team.
The former Michigan State Spartan took his talents to the ELF ahead of the 2021 season and signed with the Cologne Centurions. In his only season in the European League of Football, the 26-year-old led the league in rushing with 2,177 yards to go along with a league-best 23 touchdowns. After his dominant season, London was named an ELF All-Star and was a contender for the league MVP award. Despite initially re-signing with the Centurions for the 2022 season, London decided to join the USFL for its inaugural season and chase his dream of one day making an NFL roster.
Madre London was the ELF’s leading rusher while playing for the Cologne Centurions in 2021. Photo: Marc Junge
While former NFL tailback Garrett Groshek has been the starter for the Maulers this season, London has produced better numbers with the opportunities he has been given. He
is currently the sixth leading rusher in the league with 363 rushing yards ahead of Groshek who has 281. Add to that the fact that at 10.4 rushing attempts per game, London has had fewer attempts than all but one other player in the top 10. He has certainly proved that he can compete at the professional level but will continue battling for touches with the Maulers’ 27th round pick (Groshek). His work ethic will be tested as he enters a critical part of his professional career, but there is plenty of reason to believe in the young player.
In an interview with the ELF for their Player Portrait Series earlier this year, London had this to say:
“There’s a lot more to improve. I’m not satisfied…I definitely haven’t reached my full potential yet.”
Clearly, London believes he has not reached his peak and still has plenty left to show the world. If he can work his way into a starting role, another breakout season could be in store for the thrilling phenom.