AFLE
GoldBowl2026
Sep 6 · Duisburg0d 00h
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Berlin Thunder

Berlin Thunder

21Season 2026

Franchise

Berlin, Germany
Est. 2021
South/East Conference

Cantianstadion

Cantianstraße 24, 10437 Berlin

earngreatness

Seasons

2026

Staff

Head Coach
Shawn Cooper
Offensive Coordinator
John Shannon
Defensive Coordinator
Raul Saavedra
General Manager
Rasheed Mokka

Contact

Oranienstraße 22, 10999 Berlin, Germany

Team Colors

<p>©Riccardo Foglio</p>

Jon Cole named AFLE Week 3 MVP after record-breaking performance

08.06.202618:00

Berlin Thunder wide receiver Jon Cole has been named the AFLE Week 3 MVP after delivering one of the most impressive individual performances in the league’s short history. Cole rewrote the record books in Berlin’s 45-12 victory over the Firenze Red Lions, setting a new single game receiving yards record in the process. A record-breaking […]

<p>©Riccardo Foglio</p>

Sullivan and Cole Show Leads Berlin Thunder to Comfortable Win Over Firenze Red Lions

06.06.202619:11

Cole breaks the single game receiving yards record as Thunder roll to back-to-back wins Final Score: Berlin Thunder at Firenze Red Lions – 45:12 Thunder Come Out Flying Berlin wasted no time making their intentions clear. The Thunder converted two of their first three drives into touchdowns, setting the tone early and putting Firenze on […]

RICCARDO FOGLIO

Where can I watch Week 3 of the American Football League Europe live?

05.06.202614:30

The season continues to build momentum and Week 3 brings another exciting slate of games for fans of European American football. While the Vienna Vikings, Rhein Fire, Paris Lights and Berlin Thunder will be looking to build on their success from last week, the Firenze Red Lions, London Warriors, Alpine Rams and Panthers Wroclaw are […]

<p>© Lars Kauz </p>

After Week 2: Berlin Thunder&#8217;s Real Test Has Only Just Begun

03.06.202616:13

The first two weeks of the 2026 season couldn’t have gone any differently for Berlin Thunder. Only one thing remained the same in both games: the significant number of penalties. With one win and one loss, the question arises: Where does the team from Germany’s capital really stand? Jakeb Sullivan emerges as the team’s reliable […]

<p>©Lukasz Skwiot</p>

Stats leaders after Week 2

03.06.202615:00

Two weeks in and the picture at the top of the leaderboards is starting to take shape. Here is a look at who leads the key statistical categories in AFLE after Week 2. Passing yards Passing touchdowns Rushing yards Rushing touchdowns Receiving yards Receiving touchdowns Sack leaders Tackle leaders Interceptions Kicking leaders Jameson Wang and […]

<p>©Lars Kauz</p>

Week 2 Delivers Across the Board as the AFLE Begins to Take Shape

01.06.202613:00

Four games, four results and a league that is starting to find its identity. Week 2 of the American Football League Europe brought more football, more big moments and more evidence that this season is going to be an entertaining one from start to finish. Vikings survive a Panthers test in the headline clash The […]

<p>©Lars Kauz</p>

Berlin Thunder Bounce Back With Scrappy Win Over Alpine Rams

31.05.202621:50

A chaotic afternoon in the books, but Berlin leave with their first win. Final Score: Berlin Thunder at Alpine Rams – 24:14 Nothing Goes to Plan Before Kickoff The day started badly for everyone involved. Technical issues on site pushed kickoff back by more than two hours, from 16:10 all the way to 18:15. By […]

Free usage rights for london Warriors and American Football Leauge Europe (AFLE)

Where can I watch Week 2 of the American Football League Europe live?

29.05.202614:39

Week 2 is here and for the first time all eight AFLE franchises take the field in the same weekend. While the Vienna Vikings, Berlin Thunder, Panthers Wroclaw and London Warriors already played their first game in Week 1, the season truly kicks off for Rhein Fire, Alpine Rams, Paris Lights and Firenze Red Lions […]

<p>©Hannes Jirgal</p>

Stats Leaders After Week 1

27.05.202615:30

Week 1 is done and the numbers are in. Here is a look at who led the league across all key statistical categories after the opening round. Passing Yards Passing Touchdowns Rushing Yards Rushing Touchdowns Receiving Yards Receiving Touchdowns Sack Leaders Tackle Leaders Interceptions Kicking Leaders Week 1 gave us a strong first look at […]

<p>©Lukasz Skwiot</p>

Homegrowns of the Week 1

26.05.202614:21

Week 1 is in the books, and while the long offseason was still noticeable in a moment or two, several homegrown players stepped up and made a strong case for themselves. Here is a look at the European talents who caught the eye in the opening week. Kouanda Shines Bright Despite Heavy Loss German receiver […]

HANNES_JIRGAL

Discipline Costs Berlin: 13 Penalties, 118 Yards and a Lesson Learned

25.05.202613:48

The Berlin Thunder’s first ever AFLE game had plenty of promise. An opening drive that marched deep into Vienna territory suggested a competitive afternoon was in store. What followed was anything but, and while the Vienna Vikings deserve enormous credit for their dominant 49-7 victory, the Thunder did not do themselves any favors. A costly […]

<p>©Hannes Jirgal</p>

Vienna Vikings Dominate Berlin Thunder in Historic AFLE Opener

23.05.202620:20

The American Football League Europe got off to a thunderous start, though perhaps not the kind Berlin had in mind. In front of 4,000 fans, the Vienna Vikings crushed the Berlin Thunder 49–7 to claim the very first win in AFLE history. A Costly Gamble to Start Berlin came out with a solid opening drive, […]

© American Football League Europe

Berlin Thunder enter the AFLE era with a proven quarterback, an explosive offense, and a secondary built to dominate

21.05.202615:00

The Berlin Thunder are one of the most familiar names in European football, and they enter the inaugural American Football League Europe season with a clear identity on both sides of the ball. A franchise quarterback who has won championships and knows how to lead, a backfield loaded with talent, and a defensive secondary that […]

<p>©Lisa Giannini</p>

Andrea Poglietelli strengthens Berlin Thunder&#8217;s defensive front

15.05.202617:52

The Berlin Thunder have wasted no time following the signing of Felix Ntwa, announcing another defensive lineman in 26-year-old Italian Andrea Poglietelli. Poglietelli arrives with a strong domestic background and European experience to add further depth to the Thunder’s defensive front. A proven performer in Italian football Before making his move to European football, Poglietelli […]

© American Football League Europe

Eight head coaches, one vision: introducing the men leading the AFLE in 2026

15.05.202617:48

The American Football League Europe’s inaugural season will be defined not only by the players on the field but by the coaches guiding them from the sideline. From NFL veterans to European football legends, the AFLE’s eight head coaches bring a remarkable range of experience and philosophy to the league. Here is a look at […]

<p>©Petra Kutasi</p>

Berlin Thunder sign Austrian defensive lineman Felix Ntwa

15.05.202610:17

The Berlin Thunder continue to shape their roster, announcing the signing of Austrian defensive lineman Felix Ntwa. The 33-year-old veteran brings a wealth of experience from across European football to the Thunder’s defensive front. A well-travelled career across Europe Ntwa has built his career across multiple leagues and countries, with stops in Austria, Finland, Germany, […]

© American Football League Europe

Eight quarterbacks, one goal: introducing the signal callers of the AFLE

14.05.202615:30

The American Football League Europe is set to kick off its inaugural season and at the heart of every offense stands a quarterback. From Grey Cup champions to college record breakers, the AFLE’s eight starting quarterbacks bring a diverse and impressive range of experience to the field. Here is a look at the men who […]

<p>©Frederik Löwer</p>

Jakeb Sullivan hosts sold-out quarterback camp in Hamburg

14.05.202613:53

Berlin Thunder quarterback Jakeb Sullivan took time away from his own preparations to give back to the next generation of football players, hosting a sold-out quarterback camp in Hamburg. Twenty young players attended the session, with Sullivan passing on his knowledge and love for the game to the next generation. Giving back to the game […]

© American Football League Europe

How German WR Niklas Schumm will shape Berlin Thunder’s offense

13.05.202615:30

Niklas Schumm has quietly developed into one of Germany’s most reliable wide receivers in European American Football. Now lining up for Berlin Thunder in the AFLE, the former Frankfurt Galaxy playmaker brings speed, discipline, and a clear mindset shaped by years of steady progression. From Franconia to the Big Stage – Schumm’s football journey Schumm’s […]

© American Football League Europe

The complete AFLE franchise lineup for the 2026 season

10.05.202615:00

The American Football League Europe has confirmed all eight franchises that will compete in its inaugural season beginning May 23, 2026. With the London Warriors now officially announced, the full picture of Europe’s newest professional football league is complete. Here is a look at every team taking the field. Rhein Fire, Germany Rhein Fire is […]

<p>©BYITZII_</p>

Berlin Thunder sign Spanish homegrown offensive lineman Carlos España

07.05.202612:12

The Berlin Thunder have expanded their roster, signing Spanish homegrown offensive lineman Carlos España ahead of the 2026 season. España joins via the Spanish solidarity rule after spending last season with the Madrid Bravos, where he contributed as a backup on the offensive line. A young talent with room to grow At just 21 years […]

<p>©Jennifer Menger</p>

Berlin Thunder appoint Daniel Docal as special teams coordinator

07.05.202609:55

The Berlin Thunder continue to build out their coaching staff, announcing Daniel Docal as special teams coordinator and senior defensive assistant. Docal brings a combination of playing experience across European football and a growing coaching resume to the Thunder organization. A successful playing career in Europe Before moving into coaching, Docal had a successful career […]

<p>©Just Shots</p>

Berlin Thunder strengthen defensive backfield with Spanish homegrown Pablo De Diego

30.04.202616:24

The Berlin Thunder continue to build their defense, signing Spanish defensive back Pablo De Diego thanks to the Spanish solidarity rule. De Diego spent the last two seasons with the Madrid Bravos and would have continued there in 2026 had the club not paused their operations for the upcoming season. The Thunder moved quickly to […]

<p>©Austin Rycenga</p>

Former Berlin Thunder lineman Felix Lepper receives NFL rookie minicamp invitations

29.04.202616:55

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 […]

<p>©Federazione Italiana di American Football</p>

E-import offensive lineman Shadrach Arthur joins the Berlin Thunder

28.04.202609:55

The Berlin Thunder continue to build out their roster, signing Italian offensive lineman Shadrach Arthur as their latest import addition. After recently strengthening their defense with the signing of British pass rusher Michael Keshinro, the Thunder have now also added depth and experience to their offensive line. A well-travelled lineman with a proven track record […]

<p>©Stefan Tschersich</p>

Berlin Thunder strengthen defensive front with British lineman Michael Keshinro

27.04.202615:30

The Berlin Thunder have found their next defensive addition, signing British defensive end Michael Keshinro. Keshinro brings a wealth of experience from across the globe and arrives as one of the most productive pass rushers to join the AFLE this season. Experience across multiple leagues and countries Keshinro has built his career across a variety […]

<p>©Lukasz Skwiot</p>

“Teachers said I’d never graduate high school”: Jon Cole on being the underdog

20.04.202613:00

Jon Cole has never been the obvious pick. The Berlin Thunder wide receiver has spent his entire career proving people wrong, from junior college in the United States to the highest level of football in Europe. In the latest episode of Inside the League, he opened up about what keeps driving him, and the hardest […]

© American Football League Europe

Tomiwa Oyewo &#8211; How an Irish running back becomes a weapon for Berlin Thunder

15.04.202615:30

Tomiwa Oyewo is not just another running back in European football, he is a pioneer. As one of the first Irish American Football players establishing himself at a professional level as a running back, the new Berlin Thunder addition brings explosiveness, resilience and a unique story into the 2026 AFLE season. For fans across Europe, […]

<p>©Svenja Sabatini</p>

Irish running back Tomiwa Oyewo joins the Berlin Thunder

14.04.202610:11

The Berlin Thunder are continuing to shape their offensive roster. The Thunder have announced the signing of Irish running back Tomiwa Oyewo, adding another exciting piece to their backfield ahead of the 2026 season. A reunion with a familiar face Oyewo is not the only running back joining the Thunder from Stuttgart. Just like previously […]

<p>©tobiasfotowelt</p>

Berlin Thunder sign British offensive lineman Deon Mutsvanemoto

04.04.202610:58

The Berlin Thunder have announced their latest roster addition, signing experienced offensive lineman Deon Mutsvanemoto ahead of the 2026 season. Mutsvanemoto brings a strong track record and valuable experience to the Thunder’s offensive line. Experience across European football Mutsvanemoto has built his career at several levels of European football. Most recently he played for the […]

<p>©Remy Issaly</p>

Berlin Thunder strengthen defensive backfield with Felix Proulx

03.04.202610:30

The Berlin Thunder have found their next defensive addition, signing Italian defensive back Felix Proulx ahead of the 2026 season. Proulx joins a defensive backfield that is quickly becoming one of the most talented in the league. A well-travelled career with silverware Proulx has played for a number of clubs throughout his career, gaining experience […]

<p>©Just Shots</p>

Spanish defensive back Andy Vera joins the Berlin Thunder

01.04.202610:52

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 […]

<p>©American Football League Europe</p>

American Football League Europe announces Homegrown territories for the first season

30.03.202615:00

As the American Football League Europe prepares for its first season, the league officially announces the Homegrown territories for the franchises that have confirmed participation so far. This announcement provides clarity and support for local talent development as each team builds its roster for competition. What is a Homegrown player? In the AFLE, a Homegrown […]

<p>©Hannes Jirgal</p>

Veteran coach John Shannon joins Berlin Thunder as offensive coordinator

28.03.202609:21

The Berlin Thunder have found their offensive coordinator for the upcoming season. The team signed 71-year-old American coach John Shannon, who brings decades of coaching experience to the franchise. A long coaching career in the United States Shannon has worked at many levels of American football. He was offensive coordinator at Marshall and Toledo University, […]

<p>©Tobias Fritz</p>

British wide receiver Lewis Kirby signs with Berlin Thunder

25.03.202617:47

The Berlin Thunder continue to shape their wide receiver group with the signing of British wide receiver Lewis Kirby. He joins the team as an E-import and will be an important target for quarterback Jakeb Sullivan. Strong season in Germany Kirby played last season for the New Yorker Lions Braunschweig, where he impressed with strong […]

<p>©Saskatchewan Roughriders</p>

Canadian defensive Back Kosi Onyeka believes “Berlin deserves a championship”

23.03.202616:25

The Berlin Thunder continue to strengthen their roster ahead of the upcoming American Football League Europe season, adding Canadian defensive back Kosi Onyeka to their secondary. With experience from Canadian college football and the CFL, Onyeka arrives in Europe for the first time. For Onyeka, the move is more than just a career step. It […]

<p>©Lukasz Skwiot</p>

American wide receiver Jon Cole strengthens Berlin Thunder offense

21.03.202609:49

The Berlin Thunder have signed their final American player for the roster with wide receiver Jon Cole. Cole joins the team after an impressive stint in the European League of Football (ELF), where he played for the Fehérvár Enthroners. Strong season in the ELF Cole made a big impact with the Enthroners and was named […]

<p>©Gabby Ricciardi / Rutgers Athletics</p>

Berlin Thunder sign former Rutgers defensive back Kessawn Abraham

17.03.202615:06

Berlin Thunder have strengthened their defense by signing American defensive back Kessawn Abraham. With this move, Abraham becomes the second American defensive player and the second A-import on the Thunder roster. College career at Rutgers Abraham played college football at Rutgers University, where he spent five seasons developing as a defensive back. During his time […]

<p>©Saskatchewan Roughriders</p>

Canadian defensive back Kosi Onyeka joins Berlin Thunder

11.03.202609:55

Berlin Thunder have filled their international roster spot with the signing of Canadian defensive back Kosi Onyeka. The Canadian defender will join American defensive back Will Johnson to form a strong and physical secondary for the Thunder. With experience from Canadian college football and the Canadian Football League, Onyeka brings valuable professional experience to the […]

<p>©Foot Bowl / Just Shots</p>

“I’m excited to have Berlin on my chest again” &#8211; Jakeb Sullivan prepares to lead Thunder offense in 2026

08.03.202615:25

Berlin Thunder quarterback Jakeb Sullivan is preparing for another important season as the team enters the inaugural year of the American Football League Europe. With several years of experience at the highest level of European football, Sullivan is ready to lead the Thunder offense once again and help guide the team through a new chapter. […]

<p>©Just Shots</p>

Berlin Thunder sign running back Joshua Jacob and defensive lineman Patrik Schorn

07.03.202613:55

Berlin Thunder continue building their roster for the 2026 season and have announced two new additions to the team. Running back Joshua Jacob and defensive lineman Patrik Schorn will strengthen the Thunder on both sides of the ball. Both players bring valuable experience from European professional football and add depth to the roster as the […]

<p>©Eric Mühle</p>

Veteran defensive back Joshua Poznanski stays with Berlin Thunder

04.03.202615:30

Berlin Thunder have secured an important player for their defensive backfield. Veteran defensive back Joshua Poznanski will remain part of the Thunder defense for the upcoming season. The 30-year-old defender brings a lot of experience to the team and has been a reliable presence in the secondary throughout his career. Proven experience in European football […]

<p>©Jonas Wicker</p>

Berlin Thunder sign running back Simon Homadi

03.03.202609:30

Berlin Thunder continue to build their roster for the upcoming season with the signing of running back Simon Homadi. The Berlin franchise adds a player with five years of experience in European professional football. Homadi brings both experience and proven production to the Thunder backfield as the team continues its roster planning. Five seasons of […]

<p>©Daniel Ximenes</p>

Berlin Thunder HC Shawn Cooper: “I want Berlin Thunder to represent something bigger”

01.03.202615:30

Berlin Thunder are entering the 2026 season with a clear vision in European American Football. With Shawn Cooper taking over as head coach and moving to the American Football League Europe, the franchise is reshaping its identity around culture, competitiveness and long-term success. Cooper’s early statements leave no doubt: this is about building something sustainable […]

<p>©David Richard</p>

Berlin Thunder add former NFL player Michael Sam to Coaching Staff

26.02.202616:25

The Berlin Thunder continue to build their coaching staff for their first season in the American Football League Europe. With the addition of Michael Sam, the franchise brings in a former NFL player who has competed at the highest level of the sport. Experience from the NFL Draft to International Football Michael Sam entered the 2014 […]

<p>©Eric Mühle</p>

Berlin Thunder bring back Kyle Kitchens as defensive analyst

25.02.202612:00

After announcing their new Head Coach Shawn Cooper and Defensive Coordinator Raúl Saavedra, Berlin Thunder have added another member to their coaching staff. Former Thunder player Kyle Kitchens returns to the organization, this time taking on the role of defensive analyst. With this move, the team brings in a familiar face who knows the club […]

<p>©Eric Mühle</p>

Jakeb Sullivan remains QB1 of the Berlin Thunder

24.02.202619:37

Berlin Thunder have confirmed their starting quarterback for the first season in the American Football League Europe. Jakeb Sullivan will continue to lead the offense after already spending the past two seasons with the team. The experienced quarterback has been a central figure in the Thunder offense and will once again take on the QB1 […]

<p>©Petra Kutasi</p>

Berlin Thunder appoint Raúl Saavedra as defensive coordinator

19.02.202616:57

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 […]

<p>©Anthony Montgomery</p>

Berlin Thunder add defensive back Will Johnson III

19.02.202613:50

Berlin Thunder have announced their first American signing for the upcoming the American Football League Europe season with the addition of defensive back Will Johnson III. College career and development Johnson began his college football career at Benedict College in Columbia, South Carolina, where he spent two seasons and appeared in a total of 18 […]

<p>©Svenja Sabatini</p>

Berlin Thunder sign running back Kai Hunter

18.02.202615:00

After announcing their new head coach Shawn Cooper, Berlin Thunder have now added another offensive piece by signing German running back Kai Hunter. Strong season in Stuttgart Hunter drew attention last season as part of a productive running back duo with Tomiwa Oyewo in Stuttgart. With his speed and physical running style, he played an […]

<p>©Daniel Ximenes</p>

Berlin Thunder appoint Shawn Cooper as new head coach

17.02.202618:19

The Berlin Thunder have found their new head coach in Shawn Cooper. He will lead the team into their first the American Football League Europe season and bring both college and European football experience to the sideline. Strong background in college football Cooper brings an impressive résumé from the NAIA college football level. He spent […]