Germany: Hildesheim Invaders sign elite pass rusher Kyle Kitchens for 2026
The Hildesheim Invaders have made a franchise-altering move ahead of the 2026 German Football League season, signing three-time Defensive Player of the Year and dominant defensive end Kyle Kitchens, one of the most accomplished defensive players in European American football history.
A decorated veteran joins the invaders
The 29-year-old Kitchens brings a remarkable résumé to Hildesheim, including four All-Star selections and a record-setting career across stints with the Hamburg Sea Devils, Berlin Thunder, and Leipzig Kings. In just five professional seasons, he has compiled a staggering 243 tackles, 60 sacks, and 100 tackles for loss—cementing his reputation as a game-wrecking force off the edge. His 2024 campaign was particularly historic: he broke his own single-season sack record with 16.5, added 25 tackles for loss, and earned yet another Defensive Player of the Year award. He followed that with another strong year in 2025, recording 43 tackles, 12 sacks, and 18 tackles for loss.
Familiar faces, renewed ambitions
This isn’t Kitchens’ first connection to the Invaders—he was initially set to join the team in 2020 before the COVID-19 pandemic canceled the season. That prior relationship helped facilitate his return, giving him familiarity with the organization and community. The 6’2”, 245-pound lineman from Decatur, Georgia first made his name at Catawba College (NCAA Div. II), where he set school records with 38.5 sacks and earned multiple All-American and conference Defensive Player of the Year honors.
More than just stats
But Kitchens brings more than just production. As Hildesheim head coach Marcus Herford noted, “Kyle is a player who can change games… He not only brings exceptional athletic skills, but also enormous experience from different leagues at the highest European level.” His leadership, communication, and team-first mentality are expected to elevate the entire Invaders defense, especially young players learning from his example. Kitchens echoed that excitement, stating, “The conversations with the coaching staff were very open and honest from the beginning. I feel that something is built here and I want to do my part to make this team successful.”
With this signing, Hildesheim isn’t just adding a star—they’re making a statement. Kitchens’ presence signals the Invaders are serious about competing at the highest level, and his impact could reshape the GFL landscape in 2026.
