Best homegrowns of week 1
Felix Pahl
© Lukasz SkwiotThe first game week of the 2025 ELF season is complete, and it already gave us exciting action, close finishes, and strong performances from many players across Europe. Among them were several homegrown talents who stepped up in key moments and helped their teams succeed.
Defensive players become Quarterback nightmares
In Wroclaw, the Panthers dominated the Fehérvár Enthroners with a 55-point performance, but it wasn’t just the offense that impressed. The defense played a major role, especially the defensive line, which became a nightmare for Enthroners quarterback Brock Domann. He was sacked five times, with Karlis Brauns and Hubert Ogrodowczyk each collecting two sacks. The Panthers’ front was aggressive, physical, and simply too much for the Enthroners' offensive line.
At Rhein Fire, two more defenders made headlines. Hugo Klages constantly pressured Paris Musketeers QB Jaylon Henderson and recorded two sacks. His teammate Flamur Simon, one of the league’s top linebackers, led the team with several important tackles and sealed the win with a game-winning interception. Simon’s leadership and football IQ were once again on full display.
Hugo Klages made two sacks against the Musketeers. ©Maxime Le Pihif
Speedster Mayr runs past the Lions
Offensively, Yannick Mayr proved why he’s one of the fastest players in the league. Back with his former team, the Vienna Vikings, Mayr quickly became a favorite target for quarterback Ben Holmes. He finished the game with 7 catches for 139 yards and also added value in the return game, bringing back two kickoffs for a total of 69 yards. His deep threat ability gave the Vikings a strong vertical option from the very start.
Yannick Mayr is known for making big plays. ©Hannes Jirgal
Running back trio shines bright
The running back position also saw great homegrown talent. In Wroclaw, Dawid Brzozowski picked up right where he left off last season. He ran for 113 yards and a touchdown on just 17 carries, showing great vision and balance. In Wil, Anton Witmeur took the spotlight for the Nordic Storm after starting RB Glen Toonga left the game due to injury. Witmeur stepped in and impressed with 106 rushing yards and a touchdown, averaging an outstanding 9.64 yards per carry — a breakout performance under pressure. Meanwhile in Munich, Justin Rodney continued to prove his value as a dynamic all-around weapon. The Ravens running back rushed for 103 yards on 15 carries and added a crucial 39-yard touchdown reception in a key moment of the game, helping Munich beat the Raiders Tirol.
Justin Rodney continued his strong performance from last season. ©Roland Johannes
Week 1 reminded us how deep the talent pool in the ELF has become — especially among local players. And with Week 2 just ahead, more stories will be written, and new homegrowns will rise.