Rhein Fire add experience with the signing of Raymond Woodard

20.02.2026•09:30

Rhein Fire continue building their team for the first the American Football League Europe season and have found the leader of their defense. The franchise has signed Raymond Woodard as defensive coordinator, adding valuable experience to the coaching staff.

Reunion with head coach Mark Ridgley

Woodard already worked with Rhein Fire head coach Mark Ridgley in the 2024 season, when both were part of the Madrid Bravos coaching staff. Their previous collaboration should help create strong coordination and a clear defensive identity from the start.

Playing and coaching experience at a high level

Before his coaching career, Woodard had a successful time as a player. After college stops at Kilgore and Texas, the American reached the NFL, where he played as a defensive lineman for the San Diego Chargers, Denver Broncos, and Kansas City Chiefs.

Following his playing career, Woodard moved into coaching and worked at several colleges as well as in NFL Europe. Most recently, he served as defensive coordinator in Madrid in 2024.

Ready for a new challenge with Rhein Fire

Now Woodard joins Rhein Fire to lead the defense into a new era. Together with the coaching staff and players, he aims to build a strong unit and help the team compete at the highest level in their first the American Football League Europe season.

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