Wrocław Panthers sign return specialist Devan Burrell

| American Football | 11/02/2023

The Wrocław Panthers of the European League of Football (ELF) have signed former Milano Seaman and Missouri Western (NCAA, DII) defensive back and return specialist Devan Burrell for the 2023 season.

Burrell played his college football for the Griffons at Missouri Western between 2018–2021. In three years, Burrell racked up 162 tackles, forced two fumbles, deflected 11 passes, and recorded two interceptions. 

Burrell’s first foray into Europe took him to the German Football League in 2022 where he played one season with the Allgäu Comets. He proved to be one of the league’s best defensive backs and took the Comets deep into the playoffs before losing to the eventual champions in the semifinals, Schwäbisch Hall Unicorns.

At the end of 2022, Burrell decided to stay in Germany and signed for the Leipzig Kings and began his first season in the ELF.  It was here where he truly began to stand out as a returner. Burrell was electric from Week 1 and when the Kings folded midway through the season, it didn’t take him long to find a new home. In Milan, Burrell picked up immediately where he left off and consistently proved why he was one of the most dangerous return men in the game. 

Burrell’s admirable three interceptions and seven pass breakups as a defensive back were overshadowed by a monster performance in the return game. In 11 games, Burrell collectively returned punts and kicks for 1,820 yards and seven touchdowns, often keeping the Seamen in games. He will now be taking his talents to Poland where he will undoubtedly be kicked away from for the entire season.

Daniel Mackenzie is a Press Association graduate who works in journalism and communications in the third sector. Daniel began playing football for the London Warriors and Team Great Britain and has since played across Europe.