WROCLAW RETURNS IRONS, WENTLAND FOR 2026

The Wroclaw Panthers may have fallen short of the 2025 European League of Football playoffs, but have already set their sights on next season by inking new contracts with both quarterback D.J. Irons and linebacker A.J. Wentland.

Irons proved to be a key player for the Panthers, with his versatility under center transforming the face of Wroclaw’s attack. His passing and rushing skills perfectly complemented the fast and dynamic style of play that dominates in the ELF, and his mere presence on the field forced opponents to cope with a more unpredictable offense, with Irons equally dangerous in both the run and pass game.

In only his first season in Europe, the 25-year-old put up 2,412 passing yards and 24 passing touchdowns, along with another 1,023 yards and 11 touchdowns on th ground, the latter placing him among the league’s top three rushing threats at the end of the regular season. Now, with another year at the helm guaranteed, the Panthers will hope Irons can elevate the offense even further in what is a tough division.

News of Irons’ extension followed hot on the heels of the announcement that influential LB Wentland would also be back in blue-and-black next season. The American topped the ELF’s tackle stats for a second successive season — and third in all — as he continued to be a talisman for the Polish franchise.

The Panthers will, however, have a new face leading from the sidelines, following the recent departure of head coach Craig Kuligowski. With the likes of Irons and Wentland onboard, the team should remain attractive to potential successors.