WROCLAW BOLSTER D-LINE WITH RIEDEL

Craig Llewellyn World Football

Panthers Wroclaw have strengthened their defensive front ahead of the 2026 AFLE season with the signing of German lineman Jamie Riedel.

Riedel arrives in Poland after an impressive rookie campaign with the Hamburg Sea Devils in the European League of Football. Despite being just 20 years old, the Hamburg native made an immediate impact in his first professional season, recording 41 tackles, 11 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks in 12 games, earning a nomination for Defensive Rookie of the Year.

Riedel began his football career with the Hamburg Huskies before moving to the United States to continue his development at The Linsly School in Wheeling, West Virginia. The experience abroad proved formative, both on and off the field.

“One of the really important lessons I learned in the States was to grit your teeth and keep pushing forward, no matter how difficult the road,” Riedel said.

The young lineman said the reputation of the Panthers organisation played a major role in his decision to move to Poland upon the likely demise of the Sea Devils and, despite entering the upcoming campaign as one of the more highly regarded young defensive players in European football, insists the attention surrounding his performances has only added to his motivation.

“I decided to play for the Panthers because I heard they were a great and fair organisation that treats its players properly and with respect!” the German explained. “Of course, I feel the pressure, but I think it all comes down to how you respond to it. My approach is to treat it as fuel that motivates me. My goals for this season have definitely increased now that I know how it all works. I’m aiming for 20 tackles for loss and eight sacks.”

Riedel believes his combination of athleticism and technique makes him particularly difficult for opposing offensive linemen to contain.

“My greatest skill on the field is definitely speed combined with technique, but overall, I’d say I’m just a dangerous weapon,” he added. “Panthers fans, just know that you’ve gained someone solid. JOKA is back!”