Sep 10, 2023; Landover, Maryland, USA; Washington Commanders defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio react during the first half against the Arizona Cardinals at FedExField. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

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Jack Del Rio named Head Coach of the Paris Musketeers in the European League of Football

Former Jaguars and Raiders coach is heading to Europe

A major shake-up in the European League of Football (ELF)!

The Paris Musketeers, the only French franchise in the prestigious European league, have announced the signing of renowned former NFL player and coach Jack Del Rio as their new head coach for the upcoming 2025 season. This high-profile recruitment comes after the departure of Marc Mattioli, who led the Musketeers to the ELF semifinals in the 2024 season.

Jack Del Rio: A Legendary NFL Figure

The Paris Musketeers have made a monumental move during the 2025 offseason, easing the concerns of fans who had been worried about the lack of announcements regarding next season’s roster. Jack Del Rio is no ordinary name—far from it.

Drafted in the third round of the 1985 NFL Draft by the New Orleans Saints, Jack Del Rio enjoyed an illustrious 11-year career as a linebacker in the NFL.

He played for the Saints, Kansas City Chiefs, Dallas Cowboys, and Minnesota Vikings, participating in four playoff campaigns and earning one Pro Bowl selection. Del Rio retired at the end of the 1995 season after 160 NFL games, over 1,000 tackles, 13 sacks, and 13 interceptions.

From Player to Coach

Following his playing career, Del Rio transitioned to coaching, becoming a defensive coordinator for the Carolina Panthers after coaching the linebackers for the Baltimore Ravens, with whom he won Super Bowl XXXV.

He later served as head coach for the Jacksonville Jaguars for an impressive 10 years, followed by a stint as head coach of the then-Oakland Raiders. His most recent NFL role was with the Washington Commanders, where he served until mid-2023.

This extensive experience will now benefit the Paris Musketeers as Del Rio takes the helm for the 2025 season.

What’s Next?

Known for his defensive expertise, Jack Del Rio will aim to elevate the Paris Musketeers to new heights. After a 6–6 record in their inaugural season, the Musketeers improved dramatically in 2024, finishing with a 10–2 regular season record, followed by a playoff victory against the Munich Ravens, before falling to the Vienna Vikings in the semifinals.

As the Paris Musketeers prepare for significant roster changes this offseason, Del Rio’s mission will be to guide the franchise to the top of the league, despite a challenging 2025 schedule. With a coach of his caliber, the Musketeers can confidently approach the upcoming season.

Photo Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

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Charles Taudin

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Global Editorial Chief of The Playoffs, I created The Free Agent, which became The Playoffs FR, in 2020 during the pandemic. A longtime fan of the four major American sports, I now oversee the editorial strategy and social media for all versions of The Playoffs. I still occasionally write about sports I’m particularly passionate about, such as the NFL or MLB. If there’s one thing you should remember: Eli Manning is the true GOAT for beating Tom Brady twice.