The Rhein Fire have the impossible job of attempting to top an unbeaten European League of Football season.
But they going to give it one heck of a shot with their import group.
As expected, the Fire have assembled an impressive group of import players, both American and European. In fact, they may just have the best 10 group of imports of all the ELF – once again.
The 2023 MVP, Jadrian Clark, returns at quarterback. Clark was outstanding last season and was one of the first to have his contract renewed for 2024.
Photo: Justin Derondeau
He will undoubtedly be happy with his fellow countryman, Kelvin McKnight Jr, the former XFL standout who will be vying for return duties and will be expected to be one of the most elite receivers with the ball in his hands.
On the defense, Omari Williams returns at safety. The All-Star is without a doubt one of the best, if not the best, safety in the league. If all goes as expected, he will be making more huge plays for the Fire extending to the late postseason. Joining him in the defensive back unit is Darrius Nash. The former Utah Tech standout can play in the box, as a nickel, in a single or double-high look, absolutely anywhere you need him to be. That will be imperative for them this season.
European imports
In terms of the European imports, many names will be familiar. Glen Toonga the powerhouse British running back is returning to the backfield and premier offensive tackle from the Netherlands, Arnoud Holierhoek, will be looking to add another this season.
Photo: Justin Derondeau
Some more familiar names for those involved with European football include Tony Anderson from France, the former Galaxy defensive back who has switched from a purple jersey to a red one. He will thrive with American support over the top where he can use his length to be a serious problem in coverage. Saliou Sale is a superb signing at the defensive end who has some of the most bend and explosiveness for the position in Europe.
Photo: Jari Turunen
Great Britain’s Max Parkinson, the CFL prospect out of the UWE Bullets, is an athletic freak with one of the highest ceilings of any European playing in the league today. While on the topic of the CFL, former CFL Global draft pick, Sebastian Sagne from Finland, is coming back into the big leagues. The lanky Finn is one of the most successful receivers to come out of Europe and is ready to show everyone what they were missing when he was over in Canada.
In summary
On the whole, the Fire have bolstered an import group that was already, arguably, the best set of imports in the ELF. Head coach Jim Tomsula and his staff have the tools to repeat as ELF champions.
