Hildesheim Invaders sign former NFL WR Keelan Cole to boost playoff push

The Hildesheim Invaders have bolstered their roster for the second half of the ERIMA German Football League season, signing former NFL wide receiver Keelan Cole following quarterback Nelson Hughes’ injury. The 31-year-old pass catcher, known for his six-year NFL career, joins the Invaders after his visa in Switzerland expired when he was playing for the Helvetic Mercenaries, marking a strategic move by the Invaders.

Strategic addition bolsters offense
Cole’s signing is not an emergency response but a calculated opportunity. The Invaders capitalized on his availability after his stint with the Mercenaries in Switzerland, where he played under current Hildesheim head coach Marcus Herford during the 2025 European League of Football season. Herford, who also coached Cole at Kentucky Wesleyan College, emphasized the significance of the reunion: “It wasn’t a coincidence, it was a coincidence.”

NFL pedigree elevates expectations
Cole brings rare NFL experience to the GFL, having tallied 197 receptions, 2,832 yards, and 15 touchdowns across six seasons with the Jacksonville Jaguars, New York Jets, and Las Vegas Raiders. His rookie-year impact in Jacksonville, highlighted by explosive plays and reliable hands, established him as a dynamic offensive weapon.

Herford’s influence drives reunion
Coach Herford’s existing rapport with Cole proved pivotal. The receiver’s familiarity with Herford’s system and his adaptability to European football—evidenced by his 2023 ELF performance—position him to immediately elevate Hildesheim’s aerial attack.

Team embraces veteran leadership
“I’m excited to be part of this organization and bring my experience to the table,” Cole said. The Invaders’ board member Johannes Krupp underscored the move’s intent: “Keelan complements our top performers like Hendrik Scharnbacher, Pieter Solf, and Vincent McDonald with his experience and game understanding.”

Cole’s role in revamped offense
With Scharnbacher stepping in as starting quarterback, Cole’s route-running precision and red-zone prowess will provide a safety net in the passing game. His presence also offers mentorship to younger receivers like Matti Probst and Jeremy Beni.

The Invaders’ acquisition signals ambition in a competitive GFL season, blending Cole’s NFL-tested skills with a roster eager to contend.

Source: GFL.info