The Madrid Bravos have landed one of the European League of Football’s most promising defensive talents, signing linebacker Arthur Kingdom away from the Prague Lions. The 22-year-old British standout brings his Defensive Rookie of the Year credentials to Spain after a spectacular debut season that showcased his complete skill set.
A breakout rookie campaign
Kingdom dominated during his rookie season with the Prague Lions, recording 85 tackles (10th in the league), 2.5 sacks, five tackles for loss, two interceptions, three pass deflections, and one forced fumble across 11 games. The 6’4″, 229-pound linebacker quickly established himself as one of the ELF’s most impactful defenders, showing rare range, instincts, and physicality for a first-year player.
Championship pedigree and international experience
Before his ELF success, Kingdom won the German Football League championship with the Potsdam Royals in 2024, where he recorded 74 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, two pass break-ups, one forced fumble, two fumble recoveries, and two interceptions in 15 games. His background also includes playing for Leeds Beckett University and the Manchester Titans in the British Premiership, along with international experience representing Great Britain. Kingdom was active in rugby before transitioning to football and is a fan of the Los Angeles Rams.
Reuniting with familiar leadership
The move to Madrid reunites Kingdom with his former Prague Lions head coach Dave Warner, continuing a partnership that already proved successful in the Czech Republic. The Bravos are getting a versatile playmaker who has consistently produced at every level he’s played, making this one of the more significant defensive additions in the ELF offseason. Kingdom’s championship experience and rookie-of-the-year production should immediately boost Madrid’s defensive capabilities as they prepare for the 2026 campaign.