The Raiders Tirol have re-signed quarterback N’Kosi Perry, a 6’4”, 195-pound playmaker from Ocala, Florida, for the 2025 European League of Football (ELF) season. The move comes after starter Conor Miller suffered an injury in Week 2 against the Helvetic Mercenaries, sidelining him for multiple weeks. Miller’s placement on injured reserve prompted the Raiders to call upon Perry, who previously led the team in 2024.
A familiar reinforcement
Perry returns to Innsbruck after a 2024 ELF campaign where he showcased dual-threat capabilities, passing for 1,719 yards and 13 touchdowns while adding 399 rushing yards and five scores. The 26-year-old initially opted out of the 2025 season due to family commitments, including responsibilities toward his daughter in the United States. This led the Raiders to sign Miller, an experienced quarterback, as their planned starter. However, Perry swiftly agreed to return after Miller’s injury, prioritizing support for his former teammates.
Collegiate pedigree and growth
Perry’s football foundation was forged across seven collegiate seasons. At the University of Miami (2017–2020), he appeared in 25 games, completing 52.4% of his passes (208/397) for 2,484 yards, 24 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions, while adding 111 rushing yards and three scores. His transfer to Florida Atlantic University (2021–2022) marked a leap in production: over 24 games, he completed 59% of passes (425/717) for 5,483 yards, 45 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions, alongside 408 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns.
In 2022, Perry’s leadership earned him the role of co-captain at FAU, culminating in a PFF Conference USA All-Third Team selection. That season, he threw for 2,771 yards and 25 touchdowns across 12 games, highlighted by a Shula Bowl XXI MVP performance. In the rivalry clash, he completed 14 of 22 passes (64%) for 104 yards and two touchdowns, adding 16 rushing yards and two scores to secure a decisive win.
Immediate rivalry test
Perry’s first challenge arrives in Week 4 against the undefeated Vienna Vikings in the “Battle of Austria.” His collegiate experience—marked by adaptability and clutch performances—aligns with the Raiders’ need for stability during Miller’s recovery. The team emphasizes patience for Miller’s full rehabilitation, relying on Perry’s familiarity with their system to maintain competitiveness.
Strategic transition ahead
The Raiders’ decision to reintegrate Perry underscores their adaptive roster strategy. As Miller rehabilitates, Perry’s dual-threat dynamism and leadership offer short-term stability, ensuring the team remains a contender in the Austrian rivalry and beyond.
