Spanish defensive back Andy Vera joins the Berlin Thunder
The Berlin Thunder have found their first Spanish homegrown player, signing defensive back Andy Vera ahead of the 2026 season. Vera brings five years of European football experience and a proven track record in the secondary.
The Spanish solidarity rule
Vera’s signing is made possible by the Spanish solidarity rule, which allows every AFLE franchise to sign up to three players from the Madrid Bravos‘ active roster as homegrown players. The Bravos announced their sporting withdrawal ahead of the 2026 season, and the rule was created to support Spanish football and give those players the opportunity to continue competing at the European level.
Five years of ELF experience
The 27-year-old spent five seasons in the European League of Football, representing both the Barcelona Dragons and the Madrid Bravos. His standout moment came in 2021 when he was selected for the ELF All-Star team. Across 50 games he recorded 130 tackles, nine interceptions, one tackle for loss, one forced fumble and four fumble recoveries, numbers that underline his reliability and playmaking ability in the defensive backfield.
More talent for the Thunder’s defense
With Vera now on board, the Berlin Thunder add another quality piece to their secondary. His experience, instincts and ball-hawking ability make him a welcome addition to a defensive backfield that is quickly taking shape ahead of the 2026 season.
