The Tampere Saints’ return to the Finnish Maple League in 2025 was completely transformed by the stunning late-season debut of rookie American playmaker Logan Collier.
A rookie makes an instant impact
Arriving in Tampere with the team still seeking its first win and only four games left on the schedule, Collier immediately looked like a seasoned veteran. The wide receiver and kick returner put on a show in his first taste of pro football, hauling in 25 passes for 326 yards and finding the end zone five times. His immediate impact was undeniable, catching an incredible 80.7% of the passes thrown his way. More than just an offensive weapon, he also contributed on defense, helping the team secure stunning victories over Helsinki rivals the Roosters and Wolverines to close the year.
Building on a sensational debut
Thrilled with his instant production, the organization moved quickly to secure him for a full 2026 campaign. Head coach Hannes Mattila expressed clear excitement for the future, stating, “Logan brings explosiveness and the ability to make big plays from anywhere. We have high expectations for a full season of performances.”
The road to Tampere
The 25-year-old Nashville native brings an impressive athletic pedigree to Finland. The 6-foot, 198-pound speedster, who ran a blistering 4.36-second 40-yard dash, played his college ball both at Lindsey Wilson College (NAIA) and at the University of North Alabama (NCAA Div. I). At Lindsey Wilson, he was an NAIA National Champion and an All-American specialist. He finished his career as the school’s all-time leader in kickoff return touchdowns. While at North Alabama, he was used primarily as a kick returner and earned an NFL mini-camp invite from the Buffalo Bills.
After a spectacular four-game introduction, the Saints are betting big that his rookie year was just a preview of what’s to come.