©Petra Kutasi

Berlin Thunder appoint Raúl Saavedra as defensive coordinator

19.02.2026•16:57

After signing head coach Shawn Cooper, Berlin Thunder have now announced their defensive coordinator for the upcoming season. Raúl Saavedra will lead the Berlin defense and take responsibility for building a strong unit on that side of the ball.

Following Shawn Cooper to Berlin

Saavedra already worked in European football and now follows Shawn Cooper to the German capital. Both coaches were part of the Fehérvár Enthroners staff, where Saavedra served as special teams coordinator and assistant head coach. During his time there, the team’s return game showed strong development, with receiver Jon Cole finishing among the top returners despite playing only eight games.

Experience across coaching roles

In 2024, Saavedra also worked as linebackers coach for the Madrid Bravos, gaining further experience on the defensive side and continuing to develop players at a high level.

New responsibility with the Thunder

Now Saavedra takes the next step in his career as defensive coordinator of Berlin Thunder. The club expects him to bring structure, energy, and leadership to the defense as the team prepares for the upcoming The League Europe season.

Weitere News

Michele Costa strengthens Firenze Red Lions wide receiver corps

30.04.2026

The Firenze Red Lions have added another homegrown player to their roster, signing 23-year-old Italian wide receiver Michele Costa. Costa joins from the Lazio Marines, where he established himself as a reliable and consistent target in the passing game. Depth in a talented receiver room Costa steps into a wide receiver corps that already has […]

Former Berlin Thunder lineman Felix Lepper receives NFL rookie minicamp invitations

29.04.2026

Former Berlin Thunder offensive lineman Felix Lepper is one step closer to making his NFL dream a reality. After going undrafted in this year’s NFL Draft, Lepper has received rookie minicamp invitations from two of the league’s most prominent franchises, the New York Giants and the Kansas City Chiefs. A journey through the NFL International […]

Former CFL Defensive Back Justin Howell – Will he bring fire to the Rhein?

29.04.2026

Justin Howell arrives in Germany with serious professional experience and unfinished business. After years in the Canadian Football League, the veteran defensive back now joins Rhein Fire, giving one of Europe’s top American Football teams depth, leadership, and versatility in their secondary. Justin Howell’s CFL career built on consistency and toughness Before making the move […]