Hildesheim Invaders re-sign former NFL wide receiver Keelan Cole
The Hildesheim Invaders have extended the contract of wide receiver Keelan Cole, solidifying their roster for the upcoming 2026 season. The 6’1″, 194-pound, 32-year-old from Louisville, Kentucky, joined the Invaders partway through the 2025 season and quickly made an impact. With the new season set to kick off in May 2026, Cole is expected to play a central role in the team’s offense.
NFL experience and impact
Cole began his NFL career in 2017 with the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he recorded 748 receiving yards and three touchdowns in his rookie season. Over his six-year career, he played 97 games across the Jaguars, New York Jets, and Las Vegas Raiders, accumulating 197 receptions, 2,832 receiving yards, and 14 touchdowns. His consistent performance at the highest level of professional football makes him a valuable asset for the Invaders.
Cole had signed with the Helvetic Mercenaries of the European League of Football, but followed head coach Marcus Herford to Hildesheim after the team was unable to provide a proper work visa.
Upon joining Hildesheim, Cole made an immediate impact, playing in five games recording 25 catches for 381 yards and three touchdowns, ranking third on the team. His ability to make spectacular catches and convert crucial first downs provided a much-needed boost to the Invaders’ offense. Coach Herford praised Cole’s professionalism and immediate integration into the team, noting that his presence elevated the performance of those around him.
Mentorship and leadership
Cole’s connection with Coach Herford runs deep, as he played for him at Kentucky Wesleyan College, where he recorded an impressive 210 catches for 4,441 yards and 55 touchdowns in 34 games. For the upcoming season, Cole will not only be a key player on the field but also a mentor for the young receiving corps, which includes Paul Terjung, Danic Ruhe, and Marvin Köller. His experience and technique will be invaluable to these developing players, while also pushing the more seasoned members of the team to enhance their performance. Herford emphasized Cole’s role as a model of discipline and preparation, which is essential for the team’s growth.
