German talent strengthens the Panthers Wrocław defense!

Jamie Riedel is the new defensive lineman for Panthers Wrocław. Last season, the German athlete represented the Hamburg Sea Devils in the European League of Football (ELF).

The 20-year-old was born in Hamburg, where he began his American football journey with the Hamburg Huskies. From the very beginning, he stood out among his peers, which led to an offer to play in the United States. Riedel took the leap and developed his talent at The Linsly School in Wheeling, West Virginia.

He put his overseas experience to good use last season by signing with the Hamburg Sea Devils. Despite his young age, he made a massive impact in his rookie year, dominating on the field. In 12 games, he recorded 41 tackles, including 11 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks. His stellar performance earned him a nomination for the ELF Defensive Rookie of the Year award.

Why did you decide to transfer specifically to Wrocław? What part of the Panthers’ project convinced you the most?

I decided to come and play for the Panthers because I heard it was a great and honest organization that treats their players right and with respect !

You played at The Linsly School in West Virginia. What is the most important lesson you learned on the fields in the US, and how is that experience paying off now in Europe?

One really important lesson I learned over there in the states was to tuff it and go through it no matter how hard the way is.

Last season, you were nominated for the ELF Defensive Rookie of the Year award. As one of the top-rated young players on the continent, do you feel an increased pressure of expectations?

⁠Of course there is pressure on my shoulders but I think it’s how you react to the pressure, my way of looking at it is to use it as fuel to motivate me.

Your stats from last year-4.5 sacks and 11 tackles for loss-are impressive. What individual goal have you set for yourself for the upcoming season in the "Panthers" colors?

⁠My goals for the season are definitely up now since I know how everything goes: 20 tackles for loss and 8 sacks.

Despite being only 20 years old, you are already dominating the line of scrimmage. What do you consider your greatest weapon on the field: speed, strength, or technique?

⁠My greatest skill on the field is definitely my speed combined with my technique but I would say overall I’m a weapon.

Moving to Poland is another major step in your career. Have you had a chance to see Wrocław yet?

⁠I didn’t had the chance to see Wroclaw in real life yet but what I saw online is definitely interesting and I’m excited to learn about a new culture.

What message would you like to send to the Panthers Wrocław fans before the start of the 2026 AFLE season?

Panthers fans just know you got yourself I good one and like I did in my first season I’m going to give it all for the city and fans, the JOKA is back!