“One of Europe’s fastest” – Vienna Vikings WR Yannick Mayr
For fans of the Vienna Vikings, Yannick Mayr is far more than just another wide receiver. The Austrian national team player has built his reputation across multiple leagues, combining elite speed with versatility, and bringing a unique skill set into the 2026 season that stands out.
As European American football continues to grow, Mayr stands out as one of it’s most complete homegrown playmakers you can think of.
From quarterback to deep threat wide receiver
Mayr’s football journey began with the Salzburg Ducks, where he initially played as a quarterback before transitioning into a wide receiver role at youth international level. That switch proved to be crucial. By 2015, he was already part of Austria’s junior national team that won the European Championship.
His move to the Vienna Vikings marked the next step. Between 2017 and 2020, he developed into a true offensive weapon, not only as a receiver, but also as a versatile playmaker who could line up at multiple positions. During the 2018 season, he even stepped in at quarterback, throwing for over 500 yards while adding rushing touchdowns.
But it was as a deep threat where Mayr made his name. Averaging nearly 19 yards per catch in 2019, he became known for stretching defenses and creating explosive plays downfield. Something he is still known for today.
European success and proven production
Mayr’s career across Europe reflects steady growth and consistent production. With the Schwäbisch Hall Unicorns in the German Football League, he recorded 531 receiving yards and eight touchdowns in a single season, playing a key role in a championship-winning campaign.
In the European League of Football, his numbers underline his impact. Across stints with the Raiders Tirol and the Stuttgart Surge, Mayr has put up more than 1.100 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns, while also contributing in the run game.
His 2023 season with Stuttgart, where he recorded 770 receiving yards, confirmed his status as one of the league’s most dangerous receivers.
NFL and CFL attention
Mayr’s athletic profile has not gone unnoticed internationally. He earned an invitation to the NFL International Combine in 2019 and later competed at the CFL Global Combine in 2022.
In Toronto, he posted a 4.56 second 40-yard dash and ranked among the top performers in explosive drills, including a 3.12 meter broad jump. These numbers confirm what shows up on tape: Mayr’s speed is elite, even by international standards.
What Yannick Mayr brings to the Vikings in 2026
Heading into the 2026 season, Mayr offers the Vikings a rare combination of experience, athleticism and tactical flexibility. At 1.83 meters and around 88 kilograms, he has the physical profile to compete against top defensive backs while maintaining the acceleration needed to win deep routes.
More importantly, his football IQ and experience allow him to read coverages and adjust routes on the fly. Whether lining up outside as a classic wide receiver or moving into the slot, Mayr can stretch the field and open space for the entire offense.
For new fans, he is easy to understand: a player who can change a game with a single play.
For the Vikings, he is something more: a proven European playmaker entering his prime, ready to once again be a key piece in one of the most explosive offenses in the league.
